Grow your own Broccoli

Who can resist steamed broccoli smothered in creamy cheese sauce? If you plant broccoli now you’ll be assured of a good crop, just in time for winter. The good news: It’s easy to grow and fares well in most soil types. Here’s what you need to know to ensure a successful crop :

Step-by-step guide for growing your own broccoli :

• Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil to ensure that your plants don’t rot. Prepare the soil beforehand by mixing in plenty of manure.
• Sow seeds about 7cm apart, in rows 60cm apart. Cover the soil with 2cm of compost and water well. Germination will occur after 10 days.
• When the first shoots appear, thin the plants out to about 20cm apart.
• When the seedlings have about 6 leaves each, feed them with a handful of 2:3:2 per plant.
• Remember to keep the plants well watered, especially when the heads begin to form.
• Harvest broccoli when the plants are 10-15cm high, using a sharp knife (never tear them off).

Did you know? Broccoli is the most nutritious vegetable of all – it’s packed with vitamins A and D and beta carotene and it’s a powerful cancer-fighting agent.