The Buds veggie category includes two plant families.
Brassica Family: broccoli, brussels sprouts, cauliflower and romanesco
Aster Family: artichoke
Similarities: The buds are the main attraction with these veggies. Also, these members are heavy feeders.
Differences: Most broccoli and cauliflower plants consist of many smaller buds that are grouped together in a head at the top of the main stem, artichokes have several stems with one bud at the top of each stem and brussels sprouts have many buds growing up the main stem. While the buds of these brassica family members are tender, the most tender part of the artichoke is at the base of the bud. While most folks focus on eating the flowers of broccoli, cauliflower and romanesco, the stems can be cooked as well. While artichokes are annuals in Pittsburgh, they are perennials in warmer climates. Broccoli, cauliflower, romanesco and brussels sprouts are annuals.
Raised Bed Ideas: I typically grow the above members of the Brassica Family in a row in middle of one or two raised beds. Also, I cover them with PVC Hoop Tunnels and mosquito fabric/netting to keep the cabbage moths and worms away from them. I then interplant other shorter brassica members like arugula, bok choy and watercress around the taller plants. Since brussels sprouts take longer to mature, I usually give them their own raised bed. Because artichokes like a bit of afternoon shade and the cabbage moths don’t like them, I plant them in a separate bed.
