Broccoli for Beginners

This fall, for the first time ever (and as part of the 2011 Growing Challenge), we are growing broccoli.  These beauties were planted (sown as seed directly into our 4X5 raised bed) in August , are growing happily and will be covered shortly as the beds become wagons.  Not only do they have huge and gorgeous leaves, but they are already producing itty bitty heads!  They are also trying to completely take over the kale and carrots that are trying to be its neighbors (I gave them about 18-24 inches of space around each plant, but time will tell if it winds up being enough).

Here are a few fun facts about broccoli:

~ Broccoli has been around for over 2000 years but it has only been grown in the United States for about 200 years
~ Along with cabbage, cauliflower, and brussel sprouts, broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable  
~ My little brother grew up calling broccoli "trees" and I love this about him
~ Broccoli got its name from the Italian word “brocco” which means branch or arm
~ Broccoli consumption has increased 940% over the past 25 years!
~ Broccoli is jam packed with vitamins A & C, potasium, iron, fiber and phytochemicals (phytochemicals are natural substances, like beta-carotene, indoles and isothiocyanates, that protect your body against certain types of cancer and heart disease)

Eat your "trees"...they're good for you!!!