Emmalea Ernest, Extension Fruit & Vegetable Specialist; emmalea@udel.edu
Fall cole crops are being transplanted into the field and within this group, broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower have high nutrient requirements. Following recommended fertility practices can help to avoid some physiological disorders, such as hollow stem and buttoning. The Mid-Atlantic Commercial Vegetable Recommendations include our regional nutrient recommendations for broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower. However, some of those recommendations are in footnotes in very small print, so I am reviewing them here:
Broccoli
Nitrogen 150-200 lb/acre split between three applications (planting, 2-3 week sidedress, 4-6 week sidedress).
Phosphorus should be applied at planting based on soil test results. Rates are as follows in lb/acre of P2O5: Low – 200, Medium – 100, High/Optimal – 50, Very High – 0.
Potassium should be applied at planting based on soil test results. Rates are as follows in lb/acre of K2O: Low – 200, Medium – 100, High/Optimal – 50, Very High – 0.
Boron should be applied at planting at rate of 1.5-3 lb/acre.
Sulfur should be applied as a part of the fertilizer program at a rate of 20-45 lb/acre.
Cabbage and Cauliflower
Nitrogen 100-150 lb/acre split between two applications (planting, 2-3 week sidedress).
Phosphorus should be applied at planting based on soil test results. Rates are as follows in lb/acre of P2O5: Low – 200, Medium – 100, High/Optimal – 50, Very High – 0.
Potassium should be applied at planting based on soil test results. Rates are as follows in lb/acre of K2O: Low – 200, Medium – 100, High/Optimal – 50, Very High – 0.
Boron should be applied at planting, 1.5-3 lb/acre.
Molybdenum should be applied at planting with broadcast fertilizer. Rate is 0.5 lb/acre of sodium molybdate.
Sulfur should be applied as a part of the fertilizer program at a rate of 20-45 lb/acre.