I don't use chemicals on mine because I'm such a clutz, lol. Is there a chance this is a bit of shock for the plants? I know we have a couple of folks out there who do this regularly.

I don't know about the brown crusties, Ribbit, but I've bought them that way from the store, so it must be fairly common. Maybe this?

This is brown bead, a broccoli disorder that can be caused by poor growth, disease, or excessive temperature. It is typified by flowers that are small, turning brown, and not growing.

Research has shown that fast-developing broccoli plants tend to be less susceptible to brown bead. A study showed that broccoli under higher nitrogen application rates had less incidence of the disorder than plants under lower N rates. A regular supply of water also decreases the incidence and severity of brown bead.

Here is a link that might be useful: Brown Bead with Photos

Actually, the heads of the broccoli aren't even showing yet. However, when I went out there today I noticed that all of the leaves of the broccoli and brussles were almost shreadded. The cabbage looks pockmarked and like it will subcumb to the same thing soon.....

I lost almost my ENTIRE summer crop to bugs and disease. I can't stand the thought of loosing these as well.

Any ideas?

Should have added shreadded and crispy, not leathery like they should be. It seems to be mostly affecting the newest growth.

I went to Home Depot to buy BT for my cabbage and broccoli (something is eating the leaves) and they had no idea what I was talking about. Home Depot man told me to use Seven dust but I thought I saw somewhere on the gardenweb that it is not good to use so what do I need to do??? Thanks!

Betty - you need to go to the local seed and feed stores....even the county cooperative. They'll have it. If not, go here.

EG

Here is a link that might be useful: BT

You might have to ask for bacillus thuringiensis.

Granny

Here is a link that might be useful: Annie's Kitchen Garden

Thanks for the info - that will help alot!