How to Grow Broccoli   How to Grow Broccoli The word broccoli means 'little sprouts' in Italian. It is part of the Cabbage family of vegetables which also includes cauliflower, cabbages, Brussels sprouts, turnips and many of the Asian greens.   The words 'broccoli' and 'calabrese' are different varieties of the same vegetable. In general terms, Calabrese produces green heads whereas broccoli produces purple or white heads. How to Grow Broccoli - Which Variety First decide if you want to grow broccoli (smaller heads) or calabrese (larger heads). Broccoli matures in spring from sowing made the previous year, whereas calabrese types matures in mid to late summer from sowings made earlier in the same year. Because of the large differences in sowing to harvest times for different types of broccoli, it is extra-important to examine the instructions on the seed packets. That way you won't pick the wrong variety. Broccoli is not too choosy about the site and soil. It prefers to be in full sun, but will tolerate partial shade with no problems.  The ideal soil is a reasonably heavy (not pure clay) which is rich in nutrients and has been well-dug. A light soil can be improved by the addition of nutrients provided by a a general fertilizer and bonemeal. Adding bonemeal to a heavier soil which is not too rich in nutrients will also be of benefit. As with all vegetables avoid low lying areas which may become water-logged. Do not plant broccoli on a site which has been used for brassicas (cabbage, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, turnip, kohlrabi) in the last two years because this will increase the chances of getting club root and cabbage root fly. Broccoli from Seed - How and when and where The time of sowing broccoli with no protection depends on the variety, so read the seed-packet instructions carefully. If planted in the Fall in Arizona on nights where frost danger may be possible, covering them is beneficial. Sow the seed about 7cm (3in) apart in lines which are 60cm (2 foot) apart. Cover the seeds with 1.5cm (half inch) of crumbly soil and water well. The seeds should germinate in 10 days or so. When the seedlings appear, thin them to 22cm (9 in) apart. Broccoli, transplants well and can be grown in a seed bed and transplanted to their final growing position as long as care is taken not to disturb the root system. Using B12 is recommended. Broccoli form Seed - Ongoing Care Calabrese and broccoli are easy to care for. When the seedlings have six or so leaves, give them a shot of Miracle Grow every two weeks. In dry weather, keep them well-watered, especially if the soil is sandy. Watering is especially important when the heads are forming. A layer of garden compost around the plants (not touching them though) will work wonders. Aside from this, and keeping the weeds at bay, they will look after themselves. Where you have no garden compost, be sure and keep the weeds under control. Harvesting and Storing Broccoli For the best broccoli (all types), begin to harvest before the flowers open. Pick both Broccoli and Calabrese regularly to ensure the heads are at their tastiest and to encourage the formation of side-shoots. Broccoli will continue to produce new shoots of smaller heads below where the main head was once the head has been picked. These should be picked before they flower also. With Calabrese, snap or cut off the heads at the top of the stalk. Broccoli should be cut off around half way down the stalk. Both Calabrese and Broccoli freeze particularly well. Blanch the spears for about three minutes in salted water, let them cool out of the water for five minutes and freeze them. The less water on them at the time of freezing, the better. They will store in the fridge for about a week, but they are definitely at their best when harvested and eaten on the same day. Broccoli Pests and Diseases The table below identifies the most common symptoms of broccoli pest and disease, simply click on the pest or disease name for more detailed information on treatment. Disease Symptoms Clubroot Stunted growth especially if infected as seedlings. Discoloured leaves which wilt. Roots are a thick distorted mass. Downy Mildew Light grey powdery patches on the leaves and shoots, normally appearing in spring. The mildew will get right into the plant, eventually killing it. Aphids These are greenfly and blackfly which will be clearly visible on the leaves and especially tender young shoots. These seriously weaken the plant. Cabbage Root Fly Stunted growth especially if infected as seedlings. Discoloured leaves which wilt. The roots are black and rotting. Caterpillars These are visible as they much their way through the leaves. The cure is simply to pick them off by hand. Happy Gardening Roland in Phoenix Here is some Free Gardening Gifts for You ! 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