Broccoli or Brassica oleracea is part of the cabbage family. It is a cold-weater plant and grows best in zones 2-11 taking freezing temperatures as low as -20 degrees F. If you’re looking to add broccoli to your garden and curious about how many broccoli seeds per hole to plant, you already know planting the right amount of broccoli seeds is essential for a successful harvest. As a rule, you should plant two seeds per hole to ensure they have enough room to grow and because not all seeds will germinate.
Planting Requirements
When it comes to planting broccoli, timing is critical. For best results, broccoli should be planted in early spring or late summer. Broccoli likes rich organic soil that drains well. When selecting your seeds, there are several varieties, so choose one that’s right for your zone.
Generally speaking, two seeds per hole is ideal – this ensures proper air circulation around the plants as they grow. Make sure you plant each seed about one inch deep; water them lightly after planting and keep the area moist throughout the germination period (usually 7-10 days).
Preparing the Soil
When searching for a place to plant your seeds, look for an area that gets at least 6 hours of sun daily. When you’re ready to plant broccoli, it’s important to make sure your soil is properly prepared. Here are 5 easy steps for preparing and planting a successful crop:
- Test the pH of your soil – Broccoli prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH range between 6.0 and 7.5.
- Till or spade the area – Once you find where you’ll be planting, use a mini tiller to break up compacted soils and add organic matter like compost and manure.
- Make furrows 1/2 inch deep in rows spaced 24-36 inches apart, depending on what variety of broccoli you’ve chosen – some varieties require more space than others. Drop two seeds into each hole at regular intervals along the row, spacing them about 12-18 inches apart (depending again on the type). After they’ve all been planted, lightly cover them with the earth.
- Water regularly – Water each day for the first week after planting, then go to watering weekly to promote growth. The best time is in the early morning so the foliage dries quickly.
- Mulch – mulching after germination keeps moisture in. Just make sure you mulch around the plant and not on it.
Watering Tips
Watering is an important step in any garden, and broccoli requires consistent moisture to grow well. To water broccoli correctly, follow these steps –
- Check if your broccoli needs water – stick your hand in the soil. If it’s dry up to the first knuckle, it’s time to water
- Water the plants early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce water evaporation and to allow time for the water to soak into the soil.
- Don’t water directly on the plant. Instead, water around it to prevent fungus.
- You will most likely need to water once or twice a week.
If you overwater broccoli, the leaves begin to yellow and wilt due to root rot. If you continue to water, the plant may die. Overwatering can also lead to fungal diseases, such as mildew.
If you underwater broccoli, the plants lose nutrients, becoming stressed and wilted, which reduces the size and quality of the broccoli heads. Underwatering can also cause the plant to flower prematurely, giving you broccoli that is tough and bitter.
Mulching Tips
Mulching is an essential part of gardening, as it helps keep your soil moist and healthy. Before you begin to mulch, make sure the area is free from weeds and debris.
Then spread a layer of organic matter, such as straw or compost, over the top of the soil in a two-inch depth radius – this should be enough for adequate moisture retention. To ensure that your broccoli plants are getting enough nutrition, mix some fertilizer into the mulch before you put it down.
Water your newly mulched area regularly to promote strong root development and overall plant health. Watering during dry spells especially helps stimulate healthier broccoli heads and more abundant harvests!
Companion Planting Benefits
Companion planting offers a host of benefits in the garden. It helps to naturally repel pests and diseases from other plants and encourages beneficial insects, such as pollinators. Additionally, companion planting allows for efficient use of space by making the most out of limited resources, like soil nutrients and water. Some companion plants, such as celery and onions, even boost the taste of broccoli.
When growing vegetables such as broccoli, you should pair them with herbs such as dill or rosemary that keep harmful bugs away. As an added bonus, these fragrant herbs will make your outdoor areas smell great! Planting larger shrubs or trees near smaller ones is another good idea; this provides shade during hot months and wind protection during cold winds.
Some of the best companion plants for broccoli are
- beets
- chamomile
- celery
- shallots
- spinach
- potatoes
- radishes
What not to plant next to broccoli
- Cabbage
- tomatoes
- peppers
Insect Management Techniques
Insects can be a problem when it comes to growing vegetables. But there are plenty of ways to keep them away from your broccoli plants.
One way is by using row covers, which work as a physical barrier between the insects and your crop. You can also use companion planting.
Another option is applying organic pesticides such as neem oil or soap spray, which have proven effective in controlling common pests without harming the environment.
Finally, you could try hand-picking any unwelcome critters off your plants before they cause real damage. With these methods combined, you’ll be sure to protect your harvest and enjoy fresh broccoli all season long!
Harvesting
When it comes to harvesting broccoli, timing is key for maximum flavor and nutrition. Broccoli should be deep green, and the florets full but still tight. If you’ve noticed the buds opening or the plant begins to turn yellow – harvest them immediately.
For best results, plan on cutting the head of broccoli 4-6 inches below the top.
Why Plant Broccoli – Health Benefits
Broccoli may be one of the most versatile vegetables – you can eat it steamed, baked, sauteed, or eat it raw. Whatever way you choose, Broccoli, like spinach, is what’s known as a superfood.
Not only does it only have 31 calories in a full cup, making it great for weight loss, but it’s packed with nutrition. It’s known for reducing inflammation and improving blood sugar levels. It’s packed with cancer-fighting antioxidants and can help keep your heart healthy.
According to healthline.com “One cup (91 grams) of raw broccoli packs (1):
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Carbs: 6 grams
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Protein: 2.6 gram
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Fat: 0.3 grams
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Fiber: 2.4 grams
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Vitamin C: 135% of the RDI
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Vitamin A: 11% of the RDI
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Vitamin K: 116% of the RDI
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Vitamin B9 (Folate): 14% of the RDI
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Potassium: 8% of the RDI
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Phosphorus: 6% of the RDI
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Selenium: 3% of the RDI”
While cooking methods do alter its nutrition, this superfood is a must in any garden.
Conclusion
Planting broccoli requires soil that is moist but well-drained and gets at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. For optimal results, you should plant two seeds in each hole keeping in mind that not all the seeds will germinate.
Once planted, make sure to water adequately. Don’t overwater, or you may cause root rot. If you underwater, you won’t get the nutrition this super vegetable gives.
Harvest your broccoli before the buds bloom and the plant is dark green. Once harvested, it’s a versatile vegetable you can add to almost any dish!