How to Sow
A cool season crop. Sow broccoli seeds in average soil in early spring, or in midsummer for fall crop. In Deep South, Gulf and Pacific Coast areas, sow from fall to early spring. Start seeds indoors about 8 weeks before outdoor planting time. In rows 24" apart, sow seeds thinly and cover with 1/4" of fine soil. Keep evenly moist. Place containers in a south facing window or under grow lights until seedlings emerge. Seedlings emerge in 10-21 days. Provide seedlings plenty of light after they sprout - supplemental grow-lights can help if a sunny enough place indoors is difficult to provide.
How to Grow
When growing broccoli plants, thin to stand about 16" apart when seedlings are 1-2" high. Move plants to a sheltered location outdoors for one week before transplanting into the garden to "harden off." After the last heavy frost transplant hardened-off seedlings outdoors to an area with rich, well-drained soil, in full sun. Set them 1-2’ apart in rows 2’ apart.
Once planted out, floating row covers help keep pests at bay.
Harvesting
Pick broccoli when heads have tight, firm buds- about 50-60 days after transplant. Cut off central head along with 6" of stem so broccoli plants will produce smaller heads, which you can also harvest. Eat the heads raw or cooked.
How to Sow
Sow in full sun in early spring; midsummer for fall crop. In Deep South, Gulf and Pacific Coast areas, sow from fall to early spring. Plant seeds evenly and thinly and cover with 1/4" of fine soil. Firm lightly. Plants emerge in 10-21 days.
How to Grow
Before transfer to the garden, accustom to outdoor conditions by moving to a sheltered area outside for a week. Set kale plants 1-1 1/2’ apart in a sunny location. Kale prefers rich, well-drained soil, and can tolerate light shade. Avoid area where any of cabbage family grew the year before.
Harvesting
Harvest kale after first frost if you prefer a sweeter flavor. Pick the outer leaves as needed once they reach 6-8" long- about 55-60 days after transplanting. Leave the central bud since it will grow new leaves. Use kale as a substitute for lettuce, cooked cabbage and collards.