“Cole crops” is a general term used to describe a group of cruciferous veggies. They include broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, kohlrabi, and Brussels sprouts. Cole crops are typically cool-season crops. They belong to the mustard (Brassica) family and are all descendants of wild cabbage!
Cole crops are pretty easy to maintain and they benefit from soil that is moist but not soaked. Luckily, all of these crops can be grown in Central Texas if the right varieties are planted at the right time.
Here are some fun facts about cole crops:
- Cole crops are a good source of protein, minerals, and vitamins.
- Almost all the cool-season crops can serve as cooked or raw.
- There are at least seven varieties of cauliflower and broccoli in Central Texas.
- Brussels sprouts are the most cold-tolerant of the cole crops.
- “Broccoli” is worth 12 points when playing Scrabble!
Cabbage is particularly popular when it’s fermented to make sauerkraut or kimchi. Try making some yourself, or look for some great varieties for sale at our SFC Farmers' Markets on Saturdays from 9am-1pm. You will be amazed at the colors, textures, and spicy flavors.
For more information and resources on how to grow vegetables in Central Texas, you can visit the following links:
You can also connect with fellow gardeners on Facebook in these groups:
- Coalition of Austin Community Gardens (English)
- Come fresco y sano en Austin (Spanish)