Brassicas are a genus of plants that include broccoli, cauliflower, kale, tatsoi, cabbage, mustard, and several other common vegetables. They are incredibly nutritious, providing sulforaphane, a powerful antioxidant.
Brassicas grow the best in cool weather and can even survive over the winter in Oklahoma with a little protection. You can start them indoors as early as January 1st and put them out in the garden after February 15th. February 15th is generally past the threat of a hard frost (well below freezing for several days).
You’ll need starter pots and trays to catch the drips. Make sure your trays don’t have holes in the bottom. You’ll also need some good potting soil, seeds, and a sunny window and/or grow light.
To Start Indoors
Fill the pots most of the way with soil.
Push 2-3 seeds into the center of each pot about 1/4 inch deep. You’ll thin the plants by gently removing all but the strongest one after they are two to three inches tall. (Tip: you can eat the sprouts that you thin! just rinse them and add them to a salad.)
Put the pots in the trays and then water with about 1/4 cup of water per pot. Water them every 2-3 days.
Once they start sprouting make sure they have ample light. If they’re in a window you’ll want to rotate them every day or two so they don’t lean. If you have a grow light turn it on when you get up in the morning and off before you go to bed or use a light timer.
Links to More Information
Growing Vegetable Transplants https://extension.okstate.edu/fact-sheets/growing-vegetable-transplants.html
Success with Brassicas; Tips on Timing, Temperature, Fertility, & Watering https://www.johnnyseeds.com/growers-library/vegetables/brassicas-timing-temperature-fertility.html
