De Circo Broccoli

Remember this broccoli?

One application of slow release fertilizer and about six weeks later turned it into this plant.

I had no idea when I started this broccoli plant from seed that I had procured a "cut and come again" variety. Simply put, after I harvested the center head, which was about twice the size of a silver dollar, dozens of off-shoots began to develop and mature. I've had several good sized harvests off this one plant and am kicking myself for not planting a ton more of it.

I live in a very warm part of the south and didn't think I'd be able to enjoy such a plentiful broccoli harvest, since it is a cold weather plant and prone to bolting. The first picture was taken in February and the second in March. We've had some weeks of warm weather, but aside from needing more water, the broccoli hasn't bolted yet. So, fellow gardeners, if it's broccoli you'd like to grow, try De Circo.

Note: If you don't have the patience to start broccoli from seed (and I almost don't) then set plants in your garden instead of seeds, available at your local garden store in spring or autumn. For southern gardeners, I recommend starting plants or seeds in autumn, since the spring can be incredibly unpredictable in terms of heat.

Winter Gardening: Broccoli

I was convinced that I'd never in my lifetime be able to get a good broccoli harvest in the south. Between waiting for the seedlings to grow and fretting that the weather was too warm, I always ended up with plenty of stalk, but no heads.

So I talked to my favorite gardening pal. He's been gardening in this area his whole life, which is, at my best guess, at least sixty years. And, no, I don't have the nerve to ask him to confirm that estimate for me. Please - my momma taught me better than that. When he heard how small my plants were (tiny) and how long they've been in the ground (months) he asked me what type of fertilizer I was using. I said, "None," and he rolled his eyes. Maybe that's my problem?

So I side-dressed some slow release fertilizer today. We'll see. Anything is better than nothing, right?

Yes, that is the broccoli plant in the center. I know, I know. After all that complaining about how small the plants are, now you think I'm a big fat liar. But folks, you can't eat those lucious green leaves. And the part you can eat, well, it looks like this.

Can't see it? Look closer. Yes, that quarter-sized cluster of green - that's it! Now can you see why I'm discouraged?

By the way - Curious about the grids? It's square foot gardening. Check it out here.