Broccoli - Brassica oleracea Italica Group
Full sun.
Jul–Sep depending on sowing time.
Mar–May outdoors after risk of frost.
60–90cm height; 45–75cm spread.
Overview
A productive brassica producing tasty green heads and side shoots. Harvest the main head first, then pick side shoots regularly to extend the season. Broccoli is great steamed, roasted, or added to pasta bakes and stir-fries.
- Vegetable Type: Broccoli
- Key Characteristic: Nutritious green heads and side shoots for steaming and roasting.
- Hardiness: Hardy (tolerates normal UK winter conditions).
PLANTING ADVICE
Plant in firm, fertile soil with good drainage. Best grown in the ground with adequate spacing for large heads.
- Outdoor cultivation
Best grown outdoors in well-prepared soil in full sun or light shade depending on crop.
- Greenhouse cultivation
Not suitable for greenhouse cultivation.
CARE & HARVEST
Keep soil moist and weed free. Firm soil gently around stems to prevent wind rock. Protect from caterpillars with netting where needed. Harvest heads or leaves while young and tender.
- Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry weather, to encourage steady growth and prevent splitting.
- Feeding: Feed with a nitrogen-rich fertiliser in early growth to encourage leafy development.
- Cutting and prunning: Remove any damaged or diseased growth as needed.
- Harvesting: Cut the main head while tight and green, before flowers open. Side shoots will follow.
- Pest and diseases: Protect from cabbage white caterpillars and pigeons with netting.
VERVE RECOMMENDS...
- Harvest little and often to keep plants productive and performing at their best.