Sowing dates, age of transplants and yield in three cultivars of broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica Plenck)

In order to ensure a continuous supply of broccoli to the frozen industry, 3 cultivars (Gran Vert, XPH 4142 and ML 423) were seeded on August 6 and 19 and September 2 and 16. Seedlings were planted at their optimal stage (three true leaves), 7 and 14 day old. Production began on November 20 and ended on April 9. Yield and weight of central head (CH) decreased when sowing date was delayed and holding period was increased. The production from first and second sowing date is enough to assure profit to the grower and to supply the processors until mid March but with no production for the first fortnight of February. The yield was more concentrated if the sowing dates were delayed and the holding period was reduced. 'Gran Vert' and 'ML 423' were the earliest and latest cultivars tested. No hollow stem and a light bractiness was observed on CH of 'Gran Vert' whereas 'XPH 4142' and 'ML 423' showed hollow stem and bractiness, respectively. Sowing dates and holding period could ensure a continuous supply to the processors from November to the beginning of April but the product in the first fortnight of February and April was scarce.