Broccoli
Scientific Name: Brassica oleracea var. italica
Description
Broccoli is a nutrient-rich vegetable that belongs to the cabbage family. It is known for its green flowering heads, edible stalk, and leaves. Broccoli is a biennial plant grown as an annual vegetable and is closely related to cauliflower, kale, and cabbage.
Where it Grows
- United States
- Italy
- China
- Spain
- India
- Mexico
Planting
When
- Spring (March-April) for a summer harvest
- Late summer (August-September) for a fall harvest
How
- Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date.
- Transplant seedlings outdoors when they reach 4-6 inches in height, spacing them 18 inches apart in rows.
Care
Watering
- Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during hot weather.
- Aim for 1-1.5 inches of water per week.
Thinning
- Thin seedlings to 18-24 inches apart when they reach about 2-4 inches tall to improve air circulation.
Weeding
- Regularly remove weeds by hand or using mulch to suppress their growth.
Mulching
- Apply a layer of mulch (straw, wood chips) around the plants to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Fertilizing
- Use a balanced fertilizer when planting and again 4-6 weeks after transplanting to encourage healthy growth.
Pest Management
- Monitor for pests such as aphids, cabbage worms, and flea beetles.
- Use organic pesticides or insecticidal soap as needed.
Harvesting
- Harvest broccoli when the flower buds are tight and green, typically 60-90 days after planting.
- Cut the main head of the broccoli with a sharp knife, leaving a few inches of stem.
Common Problems
- Yellowing leaves: typically caused by overwatering or nutrient deficiencies.
- Flowering: premature bolting can occur due to stress or warm temperatures.
Nutrition
Nutritional Benefits
- Rich in vitamins C, K, and A
- High in dietary fiber and antioxidants
Nutritional Composition (per 100g)
| Nutrient | Amount per 100g |
|---|---|
| Calories | 34 |
| Protein | 2.8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 6.6 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.6 g |
| Sugars | 1.7 g |
| Fat | 0.4 g |
| Vitamin C | 89.2 mg |
| Calcium | 47 mg |
| Potassium | 316 mg |
Varieties of Broccoli
- Calabrese
- Sprouting Broccoli
- Broccolini
- Purple Cauliflower (Broccoflower)
Health Benefits
- Supports immune function due to high vitamin C content.
- May aid in detoxification and prevent certain cancers due to antioxidants.
- Promotes digestive health thanks to dietary fiber.
Fun Facts
- Broccoli is a member of the Brassica family, which also includes Brussels sprouts and cabbage.
- It is often regarded as a superfood due to its high nutrient density.
- In 1492, the vegetable was introduced to the Americas by Italian immigrants.