Calabrese Broccoli – MIg

Description

Calabrese Broccoli is a classic heirloom variety prized for its large, deep-green central heads, tender stems, and rich, mild flavor. After the main head is harvested, the plants continue producing numerous smaller side shoots, providing an extended harvest. The broccoli is excellent for steaming, roasting, stir-fries, soups, salads, and fresh cooking. This productive cool-season crop performs particularly well in the UAE during the cooler growing months.

When to Plant in the UAE

• Outdoors: Direct sow seeds or transplant seedlings from early October through January.

Planting & Care Tips

• Light & Soil: Grow in full sun in fertile, well-draining soil enriched with compost and organic matter.
• Depth & Germination: Sow seeds 0.5–1 cm deep. Germination typically occurs within 5–10 days.
• Spacing: Space plants 45–60 cm apart, with 60–75 cm between rows.
• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during head formation, while avoiding waterlogged conditions.
• Feeding: Add compost before planting and feed with a balanced vegetable fertilizer every 3–4 weeks during active growth.
• Harvest: The main head is typically ready approximately 60–80 days after transplanting, before the flower buds begin to open.
• Harvesting Tips: Cut the central head while the buds are still tight, leaving several inches of stem. Continue harvesting side shoots as they develop to extend the harvest.