Broccoli Rapini ‘Spring Raab’ (Brassica oleracea)

Sold as rapini or broccoletti in greengrocers. ‘Spring Raab’ makes dozens of small heads as long as it is picked every couple of days or so. Tasting a bit sharper than the usual broccoli it is an important part of southern Italy’s cuisine. Direct sow seed 1/2cm deep in a drill from late winter till mid-spring. Thin to 10cm.

When to sow: Late winter to late autumn

Where to sow: Direct into prepared bed

Depth to sow: 1cm

Aspect: Full sun or as sunny a spot as possible.

Soil: Prepared, well drained, fertilised soil. Add lime if soil is too acid.

Spacing: Between plants 10cm Between rows 40cm

Directions: Seed is best direct sown 1cm deep in a drill straight into the garden and thinning to 10cm apart. Pick regularly.