What is happening to my broccoli and Brussels sprouts? - Ask Extension
We are new to growing veggies and trying to do so as organically as we can.
My broccoli started off really great and within this past week it's quic...
Knowledgebase
What is happening to my broccoli and Brussels sprouts? #263104
Asked July 19, 2015, 12:46 PM EDT
We are new to growing veggies and trying to do so as organically as we can.
My broccoli started off really great and within this past week it's quickly turning yellow and looks like we may have powdery mildew and has big white spots on the leaves which appeared this morning. I've attached a photo of the yellow broccoli and have others I can send if needed. I've used neem oil and someone suggested potassium bicarbonate. Anything I can do to save them?
Also my Brussels sprouts have bottom leaves turning a reddish color. They are not close to the broccoli but didn't know if it was related. The leaves of them and my Swiss chard look like they are being eaten by something but I can never see any bugs on them. Any advice?
Hennepin County Minnesota
Expert Response
Your broccoli is starting to flower. You need to pick the florets before that happens. They quite often will start to flower under very warm temps. Reddish leaves at the bottom of Brussels sprouts are not uncommon. They are not getting as much sun as higher on the plant. You can cut them off if you wish. As far as holes in plants, it again is quite normal to have some holes in them.. Some insects passing through stopped for lunch. If you can see the insects and more and more holes appear, then it may be time for horticultural soap.
Thank you Barbara, if I pick them will more grow back? Some of the florets are really small still.
Sorry one more quick question, when you mentioned soap, would a castile soap work?
Thanks again for you help and putting my mind at ease. Greatly Appreciated!!
Sorry one more quick question, when you mentioned soap, would a castile soap work?
Thanks again for you help and putting my mind at ease. Greatly Appreciated!!
With broccoli, after you pick/break off the larger center heads, side head will develop. They will be smaller than the original. When they are picked, more side heads develop. Eventually, the florets are about the size of those you have on an appetizer tray Your plant will continue to get wider and wider. You need to watch the heads as they develop, you will soon become an expert on when to pick them before they flower. Castile soap is not horticulture soap. You can purchase that at a garden center.
