Is there a variety I could sow now for a winter crop?
I've grown Tenderstem a few times. It seems to be one of these you can grow most times of the year and it crops fairly quickly. There are a couple of varieties specifically to produce in about January, but I can't remember what they're called. Sorry!
These are all variations on sprouting broccoli, of course. Proper calabrese doesn't really like it cold. But (as I've said before here) I use a method I saw at Wisley several years back: sow calabrese in mid-October, prick into pots & over-winter in a frame, then plant out under cloches as early as you dare next late winter/early spring to pick late spring. (And yes, I know that wasn't your question, but it is reliable.)
It is worth giving Purple Sprouting Broccoli a go now.
Calabrese is risker but you have nothing to lose. If we have a mild October you could do well.
Thanks, I have sown some PSB direct but forgot it was there so it's got a bit swamped. Will try sowing some more, and maybe something else as well. The one I'm picking now is Green Magic- on the packet it says "Broccoli sprouting(Calabrese)" so I'm a bit confused!
I have been cutting Maypole Calabrese since April - planted first week October.
That's one plant.
I have given up with PSB. Takes too much room for too long. Sticking with Calabrese heads of 6-8". Summer/Autumn harvesting varieties only. I will try the Tenderstem next year though.
My broccoli is looking very lush with all this bloomin rain, but it doesn't have any florets forming yet.
Any thoughts??
Debs
Quote from: allaboutliverpool on July 16, 2008, 16:55:24
It is worth giving Purple Sprouting Broccoli a go now.
Calabrese is risker but you have nothing to lose. If we have a mild October you could do well.
I've got my fingers crossed for Purple Sprouting broccoli as I planted some this morning.
Quote from: ktlawson on July 16, 2008, 19:33:30
I have given up with PSB. Takes too much room for too long.
I don't completely disagree but PSB is my favourite vegetable. Might be worth having a look at this variety which is claimed to be genuine SB (as opposed to calabrese or ordinary broccoli) but summer-autumn harvest:
http://www.tmseeds.com/product/512.html (http://www.tmseeds.com/product/512.html)
WSB's much nicer!!