Broccoli(Calabrese)

Broccoli These Brassicas are easy to grow and produce spears like Cauliflowers.

There are two kinds of Broccoli, the Purple Sprouting type, which is extremely hardy and is over-wintered and gives small florets in the spring, and the summer types, which are more like Cauliflowers in shape. These summer types are called Calabrese or green sprouting broccoli.

They need a firm, well drained, medium to heavy soil that is not too rich. A site that has been used for a previous crop that has been manured is ideal. They also need a pH of 6.5 - 7.0, so it is wise to check this and apply lime if necessary. Apply a general fertiliser at the rate of 2- 3oz per square yard before planting.

Sow Calabrese in mid spring and Broccoli in late spring.

Sow the seed thinly in a shallow seed drill and thin to 6" apart for Calabrese and 12" apart for Broccoli. Transplant to the final growing positions when they are 3" high.

If Clubroot tends to be a problem, the seeds can also be sown in pots or trays in the greenhouse or coldframe and when the seedlings have formed two leaves transplant to 3" cell trays. Grow on until they are 3" - 4" inches tall and then transplant them to the final positions. This gives the plant chance to get a good root system before being exposed to the virus. Use one of the commercial Clubroot dips when planting out.

It is also a good idea to treat the ground when planting with a soil pest killer such as Chlorophos as a prevention against Cabbage root fly.

The time to cut is when the heads have formed and are still tightly closed. Calabrese will form a second crop of smaller heads if left. Purple Sprouting is cropped as the florets form and become purple. If left too long they will flower with bright yellow flowers.

Broccoli and Calabrese are subject to all the usual Brassica pests and diseases such as Club root, Cabbage root fly, Cabbage white caterpillars, Mildew and whitefly. (See relevant Pests or Diseases sections)