Growing and harvesting brassica crops by Kem Ormond

Cam Ormond prefers not to grow cole crops from seed, but instead uses mixed packs of transplants from a local garden center. Such sets typically include two nursery plants each of cauliflower, common cabbage, and broccoli. Planting ready-made transplants allows staggering the planting over time and avoiding the simultaneous ripening of the entire harvest.

Cauliflower, white cabbage, and broccoli mature at different times, making their companion planting practical. These crops can be grown from spring to autumn by planting new plants every couple of weeks to ensure continuous harvesting. Large cultivars require sufficient space: they should be spaced 50 to 70 centimeters apart to avoid competition for water, nutrients, and space.

For successful growth, the plants need a sunny area with a little shade and regular irrigation. Planting in the middle of summer should be avoided, as plants tend to bolt during this period. The cabbage family is susceptible to attacks by pests such as aphids, slugs, snails, and the large white butterfly. Organic sprays, wire frame covers, and hand-picking caterpillars are used for their control.

The harvested crop is versatile in cooking. Cauliflower can be baked with cheese, pickled, used for cauliflower rice, or stir-fried. Cabbage serves as the base for coleslaw salads and rolls. Broccoli is added to salads, quiches, and casseroles, while the stalks are used stewed.