Green Sprouting Calabrese Broccoli Growing Guide

Green Sprouting Calabrese Broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica) is an heirloom variety known for its tender, flavorful heads and abundant side shoots. This Italian variety produces dark green, compact heads followed by multiple side shoots, extending the harvest season. Growing Green Sprouting Calabrese Broccoli is rewarding and provides a continuous supply of fresh, nutritious broccoli.

   

Planting Green Sprouting Calabrese Broccoli

Sunlight: Choose a location that receives full sun for at least 6-8 hours a day.

Soil: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and drainage.

When to Plant: Broccoli is a cool-season crop that can be planted in early spring or late summer for a fall harvest. Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date for a spring crop, or sow seeds directly in the garden in late summer for a fall crop.

Seed Sowing - Starting Indoors: Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in seed-starting mix. Keep the soil moist and maintain a temperature of 60-70°F (15-21°C). Transplant seedlings outdoors when they have 4-6 true leaves and the danger of frost has passed.

Seed Sowing - Direct Sowing: Sow seeds directly in the garden 1/2 inch deep and 3 inches apart in rows spaced 18-24 inches apart. Thin seedlings to stand 12-18 inches apart once they are a few inches tall.

 

Caring for Green Sprouting Calabrese Broccoli

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water broccoli regularly, especially during dry periods. Mulch around the plants to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

Fertilization: Broccoli is a heavy feeder. Apply a balanced fertilizer or compost at planting time and again when the plants are 3-4 weeks old. Side-dress with compost or a balanced fertilizer when heads begin to form.

Mulching and Weeding: Apply a layer of mulch around the plants to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and keep the soil temperature consistent. Hand-pull weeds carefully to avoid disturbing the shallow roots of the broccoli.

Pest and Disease Management: Watch for common pests such as aphids, cabbage worms, and flea beetles. Use organic pest control methods like neem oil, insecticidal soap, or hand-picking to manage infestations. Practice crop rotation and ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases like downy mildew and clubroot.

 

Harvesting Green Sprouting Calabrese Broccoli

When to Harvest: The main head is typically ready to harvest 60-90 days after planting. Harvest when the head is firm and tight, before the individual florets begin to open.

How to Harvest: Use a sharp knife to cut the main head, leaving about 6 inches of the stem. After harvesting the main head, the plant will produce multiple side shoots, which can be harvested regularly.

 

Storing and Using Broccoli

Storing Fresh Broccoli: Freshly harvested broccoli can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Place the heads in a plastic bag or container to retain moisture.

Culinary Uses: Broccoli can be steamed, boiled, roasted, or sautéed. It's a versatile vegetable that can be used in stir-fries, soups, salads, casseroles, and as a nutritious side dish.

 

Benefits of Growing Sprouting Calabrese Broccoli

Extended Harvest: Produces a main head followed by multiple side shoots, providing a continuous harvest.

Nutrient-Rich: High in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants.

Cold Tolerant: Thrives in cooler temperatures, making it suitable for early spring and fall planting.

Easy to Grow: Suitable for beginners and thrives in various growing conditions.

 

Growing Green Sprouting Calabrese Broccoli in your garden is a rewarding experience, providing delicious and nutritious broccoli throughout the growing season. Enjoy the extended harvest and health benefits of this versatile and easy-to-grow broccoli variety!