Stalk length affects the mineral distribution and floret quality of broccoli (Brassica oleracea L. var. italica) heads during storage

Broccoli stalks have almost the equivalent nutrient components as the florets of the broccoli head but they are usually discarded in home use or industrial processing. Moreover, little information is available regarding the effects of stalk length on the storage characteristics of broccoli heads. In this study, the effects of different stalk lengths, i.e., 1 cm, 3 cm, 6 cm, and 9 cm on the mineral content including N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Zn, and B of the stalks and florets of broccoli heads during storage at 10 °C were determined. The chlorophyll and ascorbic acid contents of the broccoli florets were also measured for determining the postharvest quality of the broccoli heads. The results showed that the stalk length significantly affected the mineral content and the distribution in the stalks and florets of broccoli heads during storage. Very short (1 cm) or very long (9 cm) stalk lengths had adverse effects on the broccoli floret quality during storage. A suitable stalk length (6 cm) maintained a balance in the mineral content and the nutritional content between the florets and stalks during storage and ensured that the broccoli florets, which are the metabolism center, had better postharvest quality during longer storage periods. The stalk length should be considered for better storage quality of the broccoli heads.