Agretti, 'Roscano'

Germination

Seed has short viability sow asap. Seed also has a naturally low germination rate. Sow seeds Nov-May. Germination will be improved by soaking seed for 3 days prior to sowing. Drain seeds after soaking. Surface sow on moist, well-drained seed compost. Do not cover seeds but do press them into the soil. Bright light will aid germination. Space seeds at 15cm. Humidity above 30% is required for germination. Ideal temperature 5-15°C. If sowing in cold weather offer cloche protection. Germination takes 21 days approx. Thin seedlings when large enough to handle to 30cm spacing.

Growing

A few weeks prior to sowing seed prepare the soil adding plenty of manure. Prefers a loose soil, rich in organic matter with a neutral pH in full sun. Once germinated these plants require little attention, they are drought resistant and only require watering if the weather has been very dry. May be watered with natural or salted water.

Cultivation

Harvest in bunches, when still small, older plants can become woody. Cut with a knife 3cm from the ground, new shoots should form offering a continual harvest. Most commonly boiled and eaten as a leafy vegetable, similar to samphire. Can also be eaten raw.