Broccoli

Description

Climate & Soil Requirements

• Climate: Cool-season crop; ideal temperatures: 15°C to 23°C

• Soil: Well-drained loamy soil, pH 6.0 to 7.0, rich in organic matter

2. Sowing

• Time:

  • Temperate zones: Late summer to early fall

  • Tropical/subtropical zones: Winter (Oct–Jan)

• Seed rate: 250–500g/ha

• Spacing: 45–60 cm between rows, 30–45 cm between plants

• Nursery raising: 25–30 days old seedlings transplanted to main field

3. Land Preparation

• Plow the land 2–3 times

• Add well-decomposed FYM (20–25 tons/ha)

• Form ridges and furrows for proper drainage

4. Fertilizer Management

• Basal dose: NPK (75:60:60 kg/ha)

• Top dressing: Remaining nitrogen in 2–3 split doses during growth

5. Irrigation

• First irrigation immediately after transplanting

• Subsequent watering at 7–10 day intervals

• Avoid waterlogging

6. Pest & Disease Management

• Common Pests: Aphids, cabbage worm, flea beetles

• Diseases: Downy mildew, black rot

• Control: Use recommended insecticides/fungicides; adopt crop rotation and sanitation

7. Harvesting

• Time: 60–90 days after transplanting

• Sign: Central head becomes firm and tight (before yellow flower buds appear)

• Yield: 150–250 quintals/ha (depends on variety & management)

8. Post-Harvest

• Store at 0–2°C with high humidity

• Can be stored fresh for 1–2 weeks