Edible garden: Broccoli

When growing broccoli try not to overdo nitrogen sources of organic nutrients. Photo / Nigel Marple

How to grow it: Broccoli prefers a little lime dug into fertile, well-drained soil.

Try not to overdo the nitrogen sources of organic nutrients, as the plant will out all its energy into sappy leaf growth which is more prone to insect attack.

What to cook with it: Got fussy eaters not keen on broccoli? Disguise this vege by chopping it very finely, then add uncooked to hot pasta.

Leave to "cook" with the lid on but the stove off for a few minutes, to retain the nutrients.