To ensure a successful broccoli cultivation, it is essential to start with high-quality and early-maturing varieties. These varieties not only offer better yields but also adapt well to different growing conditions.
**Sowing Time and Methods**
For greenhouse planting, the ideal sowing time is in early January. When it comes to seeding methods, using nursery trays for seedlings is highly recommended. Before sowing, prepare the nursery beds by thoroughly tilling the soil and incorporating 2 kg of organic fertilizer per square meter, along with 100 g of compound fertilizer. Level the bed surface carefully. For every 667 m² of broccoli area, approximately 5 to 6 seedling beds are required. Water the seedbeds thoroughly before sowing, and plant dry seeds at a rate of 5 grams per square meter. After sowing, cover the seeds lightly with fine soil.
**Cultivation Techniques**
**Seedling Management**
During the first three months of spring, it’s crucial to maintain proper temperature control in the seedbed. The ideal temperature range is 20–23°C, with a minimum of 10°C to prevent cold damage. It’s best to keep the seedlings in a greenhouse environment. Around 15 days after sowing, when the seedlings have developed two true leaves, they can be transplanted. Before transplanting, water the seedbeds and use nutrient-rich soil or ground seedlings for better growth. During this phase, manage watering based on the soil moisture—avoid overwatering to prevent excessive stem elongation.
**Transplanting**
After 30 to 35 days from sowing, which typically falls in mid-to-late February, select healthy seedlings with 5 to 7 leaves for transplanting. Prepare the field by making raised beds that are 120 cm wide, and consider using mulch if conditions allow. Before planting, water the seedlings to reduce root damage. Plant them in the soil, and then provide another round of irrigation. In a greenhouse setting, space the plants 55 cm apart, resulting in about 2,500 to 2,700 plants per 667 m².
**Post-Planting Field Management**
Maintain optimal temperature and humidity levels. If the temperature inside the greenhouse exceeds 25°C during midday, open the vents to let the air circulate and then close them once the temperature drops. Clean the greenhouse film regularly to remove dust and improve light penetration. Water the plants every 15 days, and after each watering, loosen the soil to promote root development. Prune any lateral branches and flowers promptly to encourage main stem growth.
**Pest and Disease Control**
Common diseases include downy mildew, brown rot, and black spot. To manage these, implement proper crop rotation, avoid cruciferous crops, and balance fertilization. Seed treatment with 40% mancozeb can help prevent disease. For chemical control:
- Downy mildew: Apply 40% etridiazole wettable powder diluted 300 times.
- Brown rot: Use 70% thiophanate-methyl WP at 600 times dilution.
- Sclerotinia: Apply 70% thiophanate-methyl wettable powder at 600 times.
Common pests include diamondback moths, cabbage caterpillars, and aphids. Regular monitoring and timely intervention are key to preventing infestations.
**Harvesting**
Harvest broccoli when the flower heads reach 12 to 15 cm in diameter, are tightly packed, and the buds are small and green. Timely harvesting ensures the best quality and flavor.
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