Alternative vegetable cultivation option in semi-arid conditions: the example of broccoli

The present study investigated broccoli cultivation under semi-arid conditions, focusing on the Parthenon F1 and Orantes F1 cultivars. Turkey has made significant advances in vegetable production, particularly in modern agricultural techniques that ensure higher yield eventually income of the growers. This study was conducted at the Adıyaman University Agricultural Practice and Land Management Research Center, with soil analyses performed before planting. Experimental plots were established with four replications, each containing ten plants. The main parameters recorded includes head diameter, head length, plant height, head weight, SPAD readings, vitamin C and nitrogen contents. The obtained results indicated that the Parthenon F1 had a higher average head diameter (11.83 cm) and head length (13.42 cm) compared to the Orantes F1 (8.46 cm and 10.95 cm, respectively). The average plant height for Parthenon F1 was 54.48 cm, while Orantes F1 had an average height of 49.39 cm. The average head weight of Parthenon F1 was significantly higher at 299.07 g compared to Orantes F1's 164.46 g. The SPAD readings were found similar for both cultivars, with Parthenon F1 at 72.86 and Orantes F1 at 72.57. Vitamin C content was higher in Parthenon F1 (111.76 mg/100 g FW) than in Orantes F1 (100.62 mg/100 g FW). However, Nitrogen content was higher in Orantes F1 (4.31%) compared to Parthenon F1 (3.64%). These findings highlight the importance of planting season and variety selection in achieving optimal broccoli production in semi-arid regions. The Parthenon F1 variety, especially when planted in autumn, demonstrated superior results in most parameters. These results suggested that adopting suitable cultivars and adjusting planting seasons can enhance broccoli yield and quality under semi-arid conditions. Further research on different cultivars and cultivation techniques is recommended to improve the sustainability and productivity of broccoli cultivation in semi-arid regions.