Broccoli 'Stromboli' (Calabrese)Brassica oleracea (Italica Group)

Pot up plug plants and grow them on in warm, frost free conditions until plants are well grown and all risk of frost has passed. Gradually acclimatise to outdoor conditions over 7-10 days before planting out. When growing calabrese, choose a sheltered position in firm, rich fertile, well drained soil in full sun. Prepare the soil in early spring by adding plenty of well rotted farmyard manure to the soil to improve its structure and fertility. Take care when transplanting Calabrese as it resents root disturbance. Plant calabrese at a distance of 22cm (9”) apart, and cover with a protective netting or fleece to prevent attack from birds and insects. Water the plants thoroughly after planting.

Water Calabrese regularly and do not allow them to dry out as this may impair their development. Hoe between plants regularly to prevent weeds from establishing and bring insect larvae to the surface. The main heads of Calabrese can be harvested from September when they reach 10cm (4”) in diameter, before the flowers open. Leave the plant in the ground to allow sideshoots to develop. These can be harvested when they are 10cm (4”) long. Regular picking will encourage more shoots to be produced. Culinary note: Calabrese is suitable for freezing.

Seeds and garden supplies will normally be delivered within the time period stated against each product as detailed above. Plants, bulbs, corms, tubers, shrubs, trees, potatoes, etc. are delivered at the appropriate time for planting or potting on. Delivery times will be stated on the product page above, or in your order acknowledgement page and email.

Orders for packets of seed incur a delivery charge of £2.99.

Orders which include any other products will incur a delivery charge of £6.99.

Where an order includes both packets of seeds and other products, a maximum delivery charge of £7.99 will apply - regardless of the number of items ordered.

Large items may incur a higher delivery charge - this will be displayed in your shopping basket.

Please see our Delivery page for further details, and more information on different charges that may apply to certain destinations.

For more information on how we send your plants please visit our Helpful Guide on plant sizes.