I noticed on Monday a single Waltham broccoli plant is just starting to form florets. So exciting. But I'm a little worried that it's forming the head too early, maybe similar to bolting. It's the first time we have ever grown broccoli and it has been fun seeing the plants get huge. They rival tomatoes in their speed of growth and size.
I'm growing two other types as well Summer Purple Sprouting and Di Cicco. All the broccoli were started at the same time on April 4th but Waltham is noticeably larger than the other two varieties with Di Cicco being the smallest. The broccoli plants are spaced about 2 to 2.5 feet apart.
The plants are starting to look like they need some supports, they are definitely leaning out to reach the light. Sorry about the weeds. I've been running over to water the garden in the hundred degree weather every few days but the garden really needs a good hoeing.
7 comments:
The Waltham broccoli is looking good. Different varieties head up at different times, and even within some varieties planted at the same time, they head up at different times, a "feature" which helps spread out the harvest. With your temperatures, I would keep an eye on it. If the buds look like they are starting to open, you need to cut it. Even if small, there is still the prospect of more side shoots.
All of my broccoli plants are still tiny - I sowed them late, but I still think they should have put on better growth by now. I grew broccoli for the first time last year & it was so much fun! I didn't get very big heads or anything, but it certainly was delicious!
Hi David,
I'll keep on eye on the broccoli and cut it before it flowers. I'm really interested in how the Surround kaolin clay works for your plants. I've already seen one shield shaped squash bug hanging out on a pepper plant. Bad sign of things to come.
Hi Margaret,
Broccoli and eggplant are funny that way. It seems to take them forever to get some size and then all of a sudden they're giant plants.
Did you try eating the leaves on your broccoli plants? I've read people saying that it's similar to collard greens and delicious.
No I haven't tried that - Once I harvest my head(s), I'll be sure to give them a try!
This year I haven't grow broccoli yet. Actually this dry season is so good for this vegetable this year, so cool and dry. Thanks for visiting my blog and your advice.
Hi Endah Murniyati,
I haven't ever grown broccoli before this year, so it has been a fun experiment. Your container garden is amazing, your cabbage plants look wonderful.
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