The first load was sent east from California in 1923 and initially was known only in Italian areas of Boston and New York. The recent increase in consumption is attributable to promotion of its high nutritional value, its ease of preparation, and its attractive appearance in frozen food. Optimal pH is 5.5 to 6.5. See Soil Management for sources of organic matter and for a description of liming materials. Clubroot affects broccoli unless soil pH is maintained above 7.2.
Fertilization is similar to cabbage with boron or molybdenum additions sometimes required.
Boron deficiency shows up as blackened hollow stems in broccoli. Magnesium and manganese deficiencies result in pale leaves. All micronutrient additions should be based on soil test results. See Cole crop nutrient recommendations based on soil tests for general recommendations based on soil fertility and Soil Management for organic sources of these nutrients. Plant nitrogen status can be determined by petiole sap testing.