Broccoli Planting Methods and Key Technical Points

Broccoli, also commonly known as green cauliflower. It originated in Italy and is a common vegetable. Generally called green cauliflower, it is also known as broccoli. A biennial herbaceous plant, it is a variety of cabbage. The leaves are large, and a plump head forms at the top of the main stem, green or purple-green, with the small flower buds on the surface not tightly clustered together, and small heads growing at the tips of the side branches.

Planting Time

Many people think broccoli can only be planted in one season, but that is not actually the case. Broccoli can generally be planted in two seasons, in the two periods of March and July. If planting begins in mid-March, it can usually be harvested in early June; if planted in early July, it can be harvested in mid-September. Because broccoli prefers warm to cool weather, the March harvest is generally a little better than the July harvest.

Planting Methods

1. Land

Broccoli does not have high soil requirements. It prefers sandy soil, because it likes fairly airy soil, and sandy land will increase broccoli yields to a certain extent. The soil needs to be composted in advance, and after weeds are cleared they must not be left in the soil. The land should be positioned relatively high with convenient drainage. The soil is best kept in a semi-moist state, which can enhance soil permeability, and the soil can be slightly acidic.

2. Light and Temperature

Broccoli has a relatively high demand for sunlight, and good direct sunlight can promote the compactness of the head. However, if the temperature is too high, shade is still needed. Generally, keeping the temperature at 25°C is more suitable for broccoli's growth. The best direct exposure time is controlled at around 6 hours. When the temperature exceeds 35°C, attention must be paid to heat protection, otherwise the broccoli is easily sunburned.

3. Fertilizer and Water Management

Because broccoli grows relatively quickly, its fertilizer and water requirements are relatively high, generally divided into 3-4 times. One week after the seedlings emerge, a topdressing is needed. Next, after the heads grow, a second topdressing is needed. The later two times depend on the growth situation: if it is not ideal, then two times; if ideal, then one time is enough. The amount of water needed is relatively small in the early stage. Mainly after the heads grow, attention should be paid to keeping the heads moist. Generally, it is best to water directly along the junction between the leaf surface and the roots.

4. Disease and Pest Control

   Be sure to pay attention to preventing the appearance of diseases. When planting broccoli, cabbage caterpillars and aphids are very likely to appear. As soon as they first appear, attention should be paid to using pesticides in appropriate amounts, but in the half month before harvest, pesticides can no longer be used.