Stir-fried, boiled, steamed or even raw, broccoli is said to be one of the most nutritious vegetables. In this edition of Farmer’s Inside Track, the operations director at Elysian Fields, Yasas Jayakody, tells us that broccoli is one of the healthiest veggies they grow.
When compared to other Brassicas, like cabbage, broccoli matures at a quicker rate. Six weeks after seedlings have been planted, broccoli may be harvested.
This may inhibit development and extend the growing period to eight to ten weeks from the time seedlings are planted if they are placed in an area where the majority of the growth occurs during the colder winter months.
In order to maximise flavour and nutritional value, broccoli should be harvested just before the blossom buds form.
Prepping the soil and a routine for growing broccoli
According to Jayakody, broccoli is a crop that is grown throughout the winter, and it does best in locations with cool climates.
In terms of the soil conditions that must be met, the pH of the soil in which broccoli is grown must be between six and seven, and an organic and bio-based fertiliser programme must be used.
“We concentrate on building the soil. We use organic compost and bio-products, and that really gives us a good yield. It then takes care of the cultivar for the next season with crop rotation.”
Jayakody says they have shed sprinklers for precise irrigation. He says that broccoli is delicate, requires gentle care, and may be infested with pests; however, these can be avoided by understanding what to do ahead of time.
“My advice to new farmers, going for broccoli; go for it, it’s easy to get right if you’ve got the right variety. You need to manage your pests and soil management is always important.”
Catching up with a #SoilSista
- In this episode, we also feature our #SoilSista Sinokuhle Mbuyazi. She talks more about her journey getting into agriculture and more about life on the farm…
Want to know more? Listen to the full episode of Farmer’s Inside Track.
Option 1: Click here to listen on Spotify (all mobile and other devices).
Option 2: Click here to listen on any Apple device.
Option 3: Click here to listen on Google Podcast.
ALSO READ: Domestic worker finds beauty in growing food
Sign up for Farmer’s Inside Track: Join our exclusive platform for new entrants into farming and agri-business, with newsletters and podcasts.
