newgrow
Orlando, FL
Posts: 238
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| Posted: Thu Apr 02, 2009 9:31 pm Post subject: When to pick my broccoli |
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So I have a few questions.
1. I have 2 broccoli heads one that is a good size and one that is smaller. The one that is smaller is not as tight as the big one but real loose and fluffy. Should it or they be picked now or should I wait longer? I just don't want to wait to long and it flowers.
2. How much do I cut of the stem?
3. Will it grow back either this year or the next? Or do I need to pull it up?
Thanks
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EJ
Essex
Posts: 2863
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| Posted: Thu Apr 02, 2009 10:33 pm Post subject: |
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1. I would pick both broc heads. They go to flower so very quickly and it would be a shame to let it go to waste. If you pick it, it will stay fresh in your fridge for a few days, where on the plant, it could be tight buds today, opening flowers tomorrow.
2. With the top head, which I assume is growing from the very growing tip of the plant, cut it down to a leaf joint, so you have between 2 to 3 inches of stem, on the side shoots, I cut those almost flush with the main stem. However, I love the stem as much as the flower buds - if you don't want to eat the stem, don't cut as much, it shouldn't cause any harm to the plant.
3. Usually after you have cut the main floret in the growing point, side shoot florets should/might develop. You might already be able to see them. Usually, broccolli only flowers the once, unless is a perennial form, but they are huge plants and only produce smaller flowering florets. If you want to get something else in the ground quickly, and there are no signs of new shoots, then oik it out and get something else growing. If you don't need the ground yet, then leave it in and see what happens. And don't forget, if you like your greens, the leaves can be used as spring greens/cabbage. I love my greens and eat almost the whole plant!
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newgrow
Orlando, FL
Posts: 238
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| Posted: Thu Apr 02, 2009 11:39 pm Post subject: |
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Well that is so very helpful. Thank you very much. And as far as the leafs my wife was just asking how to use them so not to waist them. How would I use them just cut and eat?
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EJ
Essex
Posts: 2863
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| Posted: Fri Apr 03, 2009 3:31 pm Post subject: |
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The older leaves can be quite tough so what I do is fold them in half, and cut out the stalk. Then chop them and either steam them until tender or gently boil them. They can also be shredded and added to soup if you like soups. The small, young, tender leaves can be eaten raw in salads, or stir fried lightly, but they can have a strong or bitter flavour and aren't always to everyones taste. The only other thing I do with them if I have lots......is feed them to the guinea pigs, and they love them!! 
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newgrow
Orlando, FL
Posts: 238
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| Posted: Fri Apr 03, 2009 4:49 pm Post subject: |
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well thank you I did pick and eat my Broccoli last night and it was good. Thanks again. I will try the leafs as I never have before.
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newgrow
Orlando, FL
Posts: 238
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| Posted: Sat Apr 18, 2009 10:32 pm Post subject: |
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Hey EJ  I was wandering, can I pick leaves off my Broccoli plant to cook and still leave the Broccoli on to keep growing or will it die?
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