- Bees carry pollen from one species of Brassica to the next. Since all species of Brassicas will cross-pollinate and form natural hybrids, you should plant species at least 3,280 feet apart.
- You need a long, cool season for the seed pods to develop on your Brassicas. To help seed stalks grow on cabbages, cut an "X" in the top of the mature head, or a scooping slice on top of a mature head of cauliflower. Clip the tips of Brussels sprouts. You might have to support seed stalks with stakes. Harvest the seedheads when 60 to 70 percent of the pods are brown and the seeds are firm and light brown. Do not crush the brittle seeds. Dry seeds in partial sun, then clean them for storage. Store Brassica seeds in an airtight container for up to three years. Store seeds in a dry place under 59 degrees F. Use a refrigerator for long -erm storage.
- Plant rape, kale, turnips and rutabagas as forage crops for animals. To provide forage in November and December, plant rutabagas and kale in the spring and turnips and rape in July and August. For each acre, plant 1 1/2 to 2 lbs. of turnip or rutabaga seed and 3 1/2 to 4 lbs. of rape or kale seed. Plant Brassica seeds 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep in a firm seedbed with 6 to 8 inches between rows. For good production your soil pH should range from 5.3 to 8.8.
- Grow nutritious sprouts from arugula, broccoli, cabbage, mustard, radish, watercress and other Brassica seeds. Seeds of purple cabbage yield purple sprouts; seeds of green cabbage grow green sprouts. Mix or match Brasssica seeds for sprouting to obtain colorful, multi-texture combinations for flavorful salads.
Natural Hybridization
Harvesting and Storage
Forage Crop
Sprouting Brassica Seeds
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