Plant Density Effects on Single-head Broccoli Production

Abstract

There is a strong consumer demand for single-head broccoli ( Brassica oleracea L. var. italica ) that yields more florets per unit weight than bunching broccoli. Two spatial arrangements (single vs. twin row) and five plant densities (10.8, 7.2, 5.4, 4.3, and 3.6 plants/m 2 ) were examined for single-head broccoli production. Spatial arrangement had no significant effect on any measured attribute, although the twin-row arrangement resulted in less plant damage with each harvest. For exclusive production of quality, single-head broccoli with high yields of marketable florets, 3.6 plants/m 2 (46-cm within-row spacing) should be used.