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.