Broccoli Green Calabrese

Brassica oleracea - 350 seeds/1g.

## How to Grow Broccoli Green Calabrese from Seed

Growing broccoli, specifically the Green Calabrese variety, is a rewarding endeavor that can yield delicious results. Here’s a concise guide to help you get started.

### 1. Gather Your Materials
- Calabrese seeds
- Compost
- Seed tray/s

### 2. Sowing Seeds
- **Indoors**: Start sowing seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost. Sow seeds about ¼ inch (6 mm) deep in moist compost and keep them in a warm location, ideally near a window or under grow lights.
- **Outdoors**: Alternatively, you can sow seeds directly in the garden from late April to May, after the danger of frost has passed.

### 3. Transplanting Seedlings
Once seedlings are large enough to handle (about 6 inches tall with two sets of true leaves), transplant them into well-prepared soil outdoors. Space plants 50-60 cm (20-25 inches) apart.

### 4. Care and Maintenance
- **Watering**: Ensure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged.
- **Pest Control**: Surround the base of each plant with crushed shells if available or alternitively Sluggo to deter slugs and snails. Cover with fleece to protect against cabbage white butterflies and pigeons.
- **Soil Preparation**: Enrich the soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting to support healthy growth.

### 5. Harvesting
Harvest the main head when it is firm and before the florets begin to open, typically in late summer to early autumn. Cut the head with a sharp knife, leaving the plant intact for additional side shoots to develop later. Even the younger leaves are edible!

By following these steps, you can successfully grow your own Green Calabrese broccoli, providing fresh produce for your meals throughout the growing season!