Broccolini


Broccolini is not just another variety of broccoli, but a distinguished hybrid. This delightful plant is a cross between Chinese kale and traditional broccoli. 



Health Benefits 


Broccolini is bursting with vital vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, calcium, and iron, it also provides rich dietary fiber.



Broccolini compared to broccoli

broccolini plant

Broccolini plant

Broccoli plant

Broccoli plant



Broccolini is sweeter and dont have the same bitter taste as broccoli. It is remarkably versatile for cooking, as every part from stem to floret can be consumed, minimizing waste. I like broccoli, but are not a fan of the bitter tase. You can cook for a long time to get rid of the bitterness, but the problem with long cooking is that it will get soggy. So for me its perfect to get plants that have a sweeter and less bitter taste.



How to plant broccolini in your garden


Selecting the Ideal Location

To begin your broccolini growing, look for the best place to plant in you garden. 



Sunlight and Temperature 



Broccolini like full sunlight, so make sure it receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. It grows best in cooler climates, ideally between 65°F and 75°F (18°C – 24°C).

You can check with our plant hardiness tool how it is suited in your local climate here:

Find Your Gardening Zone using the Zip Code



Soil Conditions 



Broccolini grows best in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter. Its smart to add compost to the soil to boost fertility and ensure robust plant development.

The Importance of Good Soil

Before starting to grow, it’s essential to assess the condition of the soil in your garden. The best soil is a blend of mineral-rich dirt and organic matter. In my garden, I compost as much as possible to enrich the soil with nutrients. I use both hot composting for food scraps and cold composting for organic garden waste.

If you don’t have the time or space to compost, you can purchase compost from garden centers or use community composting programs. Learn more about community composting here: Learn more about community composting here.

Where I live I get a large tax refund every year for composting may own organic waste. Due to this saving I was able to break even on the cost at only two year use. I recommend you to check with your local government if you can receive any tax refund.



Spacing 



A good spacing for broccolini plants are approximately 18-24 inches (45-60 cm) of space around it, since it needs room for both leaf expansion and root growth.



Soil Preparation 

Clear the ground by removing weeds, rocks, and debris.
Loosen the top 12 to 15 inches of soil to give better aeration and root penetration.
Evaluate soil texture and amend it to achieve a good loamy balance.


Broccolini likes slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range between 6.0 and 7.0.



Soil Improvments


Organic compost: Boosts nutrient content and aids moisture retention.
Aged manure: Provides excellent nutrients when fully decomposed.
Bone meal or rock phosphate: Supplies phosphorus for early root formation.
Green sand: Provides potassium and essential trace minerals.


Planting time


Sow the broccolini seeds directly in early spring. If you want to grow a Autumn crop you can saw or late summer.
For seed sowing, disperse the seeds evenly over well-cultivated soil beds and lightly cover them with fine soil.



Transplanting


If you use ransplants, dig pits spaced approximately 18 inches apart and gently place each transplant into its respective pit.



Depth



Maintain a sowing depth no greater than half an inch beneath the surface. Use rows that is around 24 inches (60 cm) apart.


Watering 



Make sure get water, use irrigation if there is a period of dry weather. i. Mulching around the plants are a good way to help maintaining soil hydration. If you use grass cuttings as mulch you will also get a good slow release nutrition at the same time



Fertilization



Use a balanced organic fertilizer at planting time. Apply a nitrogen-rich side dressing four weeks after transplant or when true leaves emerge on seedlings.




Harvesting and Storing 



Harvesting broccolini at the optimal time enhances its flavor and nutritional value. Here are some common problems you may encounter while growing broccolini and their solutions:

Look for sturdy stems and compact heads. Harvest broccolini when the florets’ buds are firm and tightly closed.


Harvesting Without Harming the Plant



Trim the stems with sharp scissors or secateurs for precise cuts that minimize damage. Cut from the base, about 5-6 inches below where you see leaves naturally separating. Leave some leaves intact to encourage new growth.



Tips Preserving 


put in lightly in damp paper towels and store in an open plastic bag in the refrigerator’s crisper drawer.
You can also Freeze it for Extended Use

Summary

– Broccolini is a hybrid vegetable that is a cross between broccoli and Chinese kale
– It requires full sun and well-drained soil to thrive
– Plant broccolini in early spring or late summer for best results
– Regular watering is essential, especially during dry periods
– Watch out for pests such as aphids and caterpillars, which can damage the plants
– Harvest broccolini when the florets are still tight and before they start to flower
– Broccolini can be harvested multiple times throughout the growing season
– Proper spacing between plants is important to allow for good air circulation
– Consider using organic fertilizers to promote healthy growth without harmful chemicals.

BeeJay
Latest posts by BeeJay (see all)

Discover more from Leafgreen Gardens

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.