Broccoli, 'Summer Purple'

Germination

Prepare the soil in early spring. Dig over, remove any stones, add some well rotted organic matter and firm. Sow Mar-June, 15mm deep into a well-prepared seed bed. Germination takes 7-12 days. Ideal temp. 10-15°C. When seedlings have 4-5 leaves transplant to their final growing position with 60cm spacing. Water well after planting.

Growing

Protect young plants from bird attack. Water well in dry weather, apply a mulch to conserve moisture. Feed with a liquid feed occasionally. Watch for pests and treat accordingly.

Cultivation

Harvest shoots when 15cm long. Use a sharp knife to cut, leaving a small stalk. Pick side shoots regularly. Regular picking extends the harvest window. Do not strip the plant in one go.