Broccoli Seeds - Green Sprouting Calabrese Broccoli

Seed Count: 300 Seeds
Maturity: Approximately 90 Days from Planting
Growth Habit: Upright plant producing large central heads, prolific side shoots, and edible leaves.
Head Characteristics: Dense, green heads measuring 5-8 inches in diameter, with numerous side shoots for continuous harvest.
Flavor Profile: Sweet and mild, with a tender texture.
Plant Type: Heirloom, open-pollinated, non-GMO variety.
Growing Conditions: Thrives in full sun to partial shade with well-draining, fertile soil.

History & Heritage:
The Green Sprouting Calabrese Broccoli is a timeless Italian heirloom variety, originating in the Calabrian region of Italy. Brought to America in the 1880s, it quickly gained popularity for its robust growth, versatility, and exceptional flavor. With a rich history that spans centuries, this broccoli is a symbol of heirloom gardening, offering a connection to traditional Italian agricultural practices and flavors.

Culinary Versatility:
Green Sprouting Calabrese Broccoli is celebrated for its sweet, mild flavor and versatile culinary applications. Its edible stems, leaves, and abundant side shoots make it a low-waste and high-yield crop. Use the tender heads and shoots in fresh salads, steamed dishes, or stir-fries, while the leaves can be sautéed or added to soups for a nutrient-rich boost. This variety’s ability to provide multiple harvests ensures a steady supply of fresh, flavorful broccoli throughout the growing season.

Planting & Growth Tips:
Growing Green Sprouting Calabrese Broccoli is rewarding, with its extended harvest window and prolific production. Follow these tips for successful cultivation:

• Planting: Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost for spring planting, or sow directly outdoors in late summer for a fall harvest. Transplant seedlings into the garden when they are 4-6 weeks old, spacing plants 18-24 inches apart in rows spaced 24-36 inches apart.
• Soil: Use fertile, well-draining soil enriched with compost or organic matter. Maintain a pH between 6.0-7.5 for optimal growth.
• Sunlight: Provide full sun exposure for vigorous growth, but partial shade is tolerated in warmer climates.
• Watering: Keep soil consistently moist, especially during head and shoot development, but avoid waterlogging. Mulching helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
• Care: Monitor for common pests like cabbage worms and aphids, and use organic pest control methods as needed. Regular harvesting of side shoots encourages continuous production.
• Harvesting: Harvest the main head when it reaches 5-8 inches in diameter. Continue harvesting side shoots as they develop for a prolonged harvest period. The tender leaves can also be harvested and used as a nutritious addition to meals.

Why Grow Green Sprouting Calabrese Broccoli?
Green Sprouting Calabrese Broccoli offers a perfect combination of flavor, productivity, and versatility. Its ability to produce large heads, abundant side shoots, and edible leaves makes it a gardener’s dream. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious addition to your meals or a reliable crop for continuous harvests, this Italian heirloom variety delivers exceptional results. Add Green Sprouting Calabrese Broccoli to your garden for a bountiful, flavorful, and historic harvest.