Calabrese, 'Ramoso'

Germination

Prepare the soil in autumn. Dig over, remove any stones, add some well rotted organic matter and firm. Calabrese do not like acidic soil so add lime if needed. Sow indoors in Feb-Aug, sow thinly into modules. Germination takes 10-21 days. Ideal temp. 13-20°C. When seedlings reach 8cm they are ready to plant out. Water the day before moving and keep watered until established. Outdoor transplanting should be 25mm deep in a drill with 45cm spacing. Direct sow Mar-June 12mm deep in rows 15cm apart. Keep watered. Thin as required. For overwintering crops sow in Sept.

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

The heads must be harvested first whilst in tight bud , this encourages side shoots to develop quickly which may then be harvested. 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.