Autism fix: broccoli extract makes a difference

A US study has shown a chemical in broccoli provides a marked positive effect for those with autism.

A study has shown a chemical extract of broccoli called sulforaphane has a marked effect on autism.

Love it or hate it, broccoli has many health benefits, courtesy of its antioxidants. In addition, a recent study has shown a chemical extract of broccoli called sulforaphane has a marked effect on autism.

In a double blind trial in the US by Harvard University and Johns Hopkins Hospital, there was a dramatic difference in the social interactions and other behaviours of autism sufferers taking the extract from broccoli sprouts compared with those on a placebo.

According to Paul Talalay the improvements were so marked that it was apparent which patients were taking the trial drug. The concentration of sulforaphane in broccoli sprouts is 20-50 times higher than in broccoli

Gardening Q&A

What are the laws governing transportation of plants over state borders? I’ve seen some lovely plants while in Queensland. - HELENE POWELL, BALLARAT

This is a great question as the unwanted spread of pests, diseases and weeds can have huge economic and environmental consequences. Restrictions apply to each state and territory, and they vary according to where you are coming from. It’s easy to check online at quarantinedomestic.gov.au. Download the booklet, pick one up at a visitor information centre, or call 1800 084 881.

With the recent wet weather is it a good time to transplant plants? - JOHANNA REES, MEDOWIE, NSW

Autumn to spring is good to transplant evergreen shrubs and trees, while midwinter is best for deciduous plants, when they are dormant. When soil is fully wet, you can easily damage the soil’s structure by working or compacting it. Wait until it is just moist.

A seemingly healthy five-year-old pepper tree abruptly had all its leaves wilt as though it’s about to die. No frost or other unusual events occurred. Do you have an explanation? - MARTIN DRERUP, MORNINGTON PENINSULA

Sudden wilt and collapse is typical of phytophthora root rot, which destroys root systems. It is more common in warm, moist conditions but drought-stressed plants can collapse after heavy rain. Phytophthora is, alas, common in gardens and responsible for dieback in native forests across Australia. It affects many, but not all, plants. Laboratory soil tests can confirm the pathogen’s presence. There is no cure. Treatments include adding organic matter to the soil, improving drainage, and early or preventive spraying of affected plants with phosphorous acid, sold as Anti-Rot. See rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au for more.

An old azalea bush in our newly acquired garden seems unhealthy with a silvery grey-green fungus on the branches. What’s the best treatment? - KYLIE BRAMMY, BRUNSWICK HEADS, NSW

This is probably lichen, which doesn’t itself harm the plant. However, it is found on weak plants so it indicates your azalea is infirm. The loss of leaf canopy provides the light lichens need to thrive. You can use a stiff brush to remove it but reinvigorating the plant is your best hope. Prune half the branches hard, apply organic fertiliser and water well. Prune the other half next year. Otherwise, it may be time to replace the azalea.

Send your questions to: [e-mail] or Helen Young, PO Box 3098, Willoughby North, NSW 2068. helenyoung.com.au.

July’s best reader question wins a hamper of Gardeners Therapy Hand and Body Care products worth $130 from homewares distributor Supertex; supertex.com.au.