Broccolini® is a trademarked cross between broccoli and Chinese kale. It was developed in Japan in the 1970s, and has since become popular in many Western countries. Broccolini has a long, thin stem with small florets that are similar in appearance to broccoli rabe or rapini. The leaves of the plant are also edible and have a slightly sweet taste. Grow Broccolini is easy, and it can be harvested throughout the year in most climate zones.
When shopping for broccolini, look for bright green stalks with compact florets. The stems should be firm, and the leaves should be fresh and free from brown spots. Avoid any plants that have yellow flowers, as this is a sign that the vegetable is past its peak. Broccolini can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Broccolini Nutrition Facts
Broccolini is a nutrient-rich vegetable that provides many health benefits. It is low in calories and fat, and is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K. It also contains fiber, potassium, and iron. Broccolini can be eaten raw or cooked and is often used in stir-fries, salads, and pasta dishes. This vegetable has been prized by restaurant chefs everywhere for its delicate flavor with an appearance to match.
Broccoli vs Broccolini. What is broccolini?
Broccolini, or Chinese kale is a wonderful alternative to traditional broccoli. It’s not quite as leafy and can be harvested in late spring early summer when it has just started getting big enough for harvest although you will want to wait until after your first frost if possible! The only downside? Confusion over its multiple names: Italian (broccoli), Spanish (“brochero”)and Japanese(kabocha). Once you get past these pesky subtitles, however; once again we find ourselves face-to-face with an incredibly delicious vegetable that’s not only good for us, but fun to grow!
How to Grow Broccolini
To grow your own transplants, start seeds indoors about six weeks before the last frost date in your region. If summers are cool and autumn nights turn chilly early enough to need heating systems or electric lights (or both!), direct sowing may be necessary for a successful harvest; depending on how much sun you have available where home grows will determine what time of year it is best begun.
How to Plant Broccolini
To get the best results, plant your seedlings after the last danger of frost has passed. Make sure to prepare the soil with the right nutrients so that your plants will grow well. Broccolini prefers brighter light than broccoli does, so keep them 12-24 inches apart when planting them. Be sure to water them regularly, both during rain and during dry periods. Mulching can help conserve moisture around your plants. See USDA’s Plant Hardiness Zones for more help regarding frost and the best dates for planting.
| Plant Type: | Annual vegetable | Water Needs: | Moderate |
| Native to: | Hybrid of European and Chinese cultivars | Maintenance: | Moderate |
| Hardiness (USDA Zone): | 2-10 | Soil Type: | Nutrient rich |
| Season: | Spring, fall | Soil pH: | 6.0-7.0 |
| Exposure: | Full sun | Soil Drainage: | Well-draining |
| Time to Maturity: | 60-90 days | Companion Planting: | Chamomile, dill, mint, rosemary, sage, and alliums such leeks, onions, chives, and shallots |
| Spacing: | 2 feet | Avoid Planting With: | Nightshades |
| Planting Depth: | 1/4 inch (seeds) | Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Height: | 2-3 feet | Genus: | Brassica |
| Spread: | 1 foot | Species: | oleracea |
| Tolerance: | Light frost | Cultivar: | var. italica × alboglabra |
| Common Pests: | Aphids, cabbage loopers, flea beetles, slugs, root maggots, white flies | Common Disease: | Downy mildew, powdery mildew, black leg, black rot |
When to Plant Broccolini
When thinking about how to grow broccolini, it’s important to remember that this cool-season crop prefers full sun but will tolerate some light shade; in fact, too much direct sunlight can cause the foliage to become somewhat yellowish-green. If you’re growing in an area with very hot summers, partial shade during the afternoon hours may be beneficial.
As with all veggies, soil preparation is key to success! Be sure to work in some organic matter prior to planting and keep the area weed-free throughout the season; this will help ensure your plants get off to a strong start and are able to produce an abundant harvest.
How Much Water do Broccolini Need
Water broccolini regularly, especially during dry weather; aim for 1-2 inches per week. Fertilize plants every 4-6 weeks with a water-soluble fertilizer or compost tea.
How to Harvest Broccolini
To harvest, cut the entire plant 2-3 inches above the soil line. Broccolini is ready to harvest 60-80 days after planting.
You can also choose to harvest just the florets; cut the main stem about 4 inches below the floret cluster. Broccoli leaves are edible and can be enjoyed raw or cooked. To harvest, simply cut or tear them from the plant.
Harvesting can begin when the heads are 3-4 inches in diameter; cut them just above the soil line using sharp garden shears. Broccolini will keep in the refrigerator for several days, but is best used fresh.
Try steaming, sautéing, or roasting your broccolini; it’s also delicious when eaten raw, added to salads or used as a pizza topping! When cooked, its flavor has been described as being similar to that of asparagus or Brussels sprouts.
How to Store Broccolini
Once harvested, store broccolini in a plastic bag in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. Use within 5 days for best quality.
Broccolini can also be blanched and frozen for long-term storage.
- First, bring a pot of water to a boil and prepare a bowl of ice water.
- Cut the broccolini into pieces and drop them into the boiling water; cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and place in the ice water to stop the cooking process. Once cool, drain well and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Freeze for 2-3 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Broccolini will keep in the freezer for up to 8 months.
So there you have it: everything you need to know about how to grow and harvest this delicious vegetable! Whether you choose to direct sow or start transplants indoors, be sure to give your plants plenty of sun, water, and nutrients so that they can produce an abundant
How Big Broccolini Can Get
Broccolini plants can grow to be quite large, reaching up to 24 inches tall and 36 inches wide. The size of the plant will depend on the variety you are growing as well as the growing conditions. For example, if you are growing in a hot climate, your plants may not get as large as they would in a cooler climate. Additionally, if you are growing in poor soil, your plants may not reach their full potential size. fertilize them every 4-6 weeks with a water-soluble fertilizer or compost tea.
How Much Sunlight do Broccolini Need
Broccolini needs full sun to partial shade, meaning it needs around 6 hours of sunlight per day. However, too much direct sunlight can cause the foliage to become somewhat yellowish-green. If you’re growing in an area with very hot summers, partial shade during the afternoon hours may be beneficial.
Broccolini Recipes
Looking for ways to use your freshly harvested broccolini? Try one of these delicious recipes:
Sautéed Broccolini with Garlic:
This simple recipe is a great way to showcase the flavor of fresh broccolini. Simply sauté the veggies in olive oil with garlic and a pinch of salt and pepper. Serve as a side dish or add to your favorite pasta recipe.
Broccolini Pizza
This unique pizza features a crispy, thin crust topped with broccolini, sausage, and mozzarella cheese. It’s sure to become a new family favorite!
Roasted Broccolini with Parmesan
This easy recipe only requires 4 ingredients and takes less than 30 minutes to make. Roast broccolini in the oven with olive oil and garlic, then top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Stir-Fry Broccolini with Beef
This hearty stir-fry features tender beef and fresh broccolini, all cooked up in a savory sauce. Serve over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
FAQ’s About Broccolini
How do you harvest broccolini so it keeps growing?
To harvest broccolini so that it keeps growing, cut the stems just above the soil line using sharp garden shears. Broccolini will keep growing as long as there is at least 2 inches of stem remaining.
Can you eat raw broccolini?
Yes, you can eat raw broccolini! It has a slightly sweet and peppery flavor that is delicious in salads or as a healthy snack.
What is the difference between broccoli and broccolini?
The biggest difference between broccoli and broccolini is their size. Broccoli plants are much larger, with thick stems and large florets. Broccolini, on the other hand, has thinner stems and smaller florets. Additionally, broccolini has a more delicate flavor than broccoli.
Does a broccolini plant keep on producing?
Yes, a broccolini plant will keep on producing as long as the stems are cut above the soil line. The plant will continue to grow and produce new stems and florets.
Is brocolli easy to grow?
Yes, broccoli is a relatively easy vegetable to grow. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate some cold weather and can be grown in most soil types. However, it does prefer full sun and well-drained soil.
What month do you plant broccoli?
Broccoli can be planted in the spring or fall. In most areas, the best time to plant is late spring, after the last frost.
How much broccoli do you get from one plant?
One broccoli plant can yield up to 6 heads of broccoli. However, the actual amount will depend on the variety you are growing as well as the growing conditions.
I’m Michael Barnes and I love what I do. Every day, I get to work with the land and help create something that is essential for life. But it’s not always easy. Every day brings new challenges or unexpected natural disasters in order to produce what we need every day: meat; fruit, juice, and healthy dairy products!
