cauliflower 'Romanesco'
cauliflower or Brassica oleracea (Botrytis Group) 'Romanesco'
The vivid lime-green heads of this extraordinary vegetable have to be seen to be believed. Somewhere between a broccoli and a cauliflower, its tightly-packed, architectural whorls of delicately pointed florets have inspired artists and sculptors and look almost too good to eat. Don't let that hold you back though: the flavour of cauliflower 'Romanesco' is absolutely delicious with a crunchy, fresh texture. Once the main head has been harvested, the plant will produce several smaller heads over the next few weeks.
How to care for cauliflower Romanesco:
Once planted out, keep plants well-watered, especially in dry spells, as consistent moisture is key for forming good heads. Feed every couple of weeks with a high-nitrogen fertiliser once established. Protect young plants from cabbage root fly and pigeons with netting or collars.
As the curd (head) begins to form, you can fold over the outer leaves to shield it from sun and rain, which helps maintain its colour and quality.
Cut the heads when they are firm and tight, before they start to loosen or discolour. Use a sharp knife and leave a few leaves around the head to help keep it fresh. Check plants regularly as they can mature quickly once ready.
As the curd (head) begins to form, you can fold over the outer leaves to shield it from sun and rain, which helps maintain its colour and quality.
Cut the heads when they are firm and tight, before they start to loosen or discolour. Use a sharp knife and leave a few leaves around the head to help keep it fresh. Check plants regularly as they can mature quickly once ready.
Sowing instructions:
Sow seeds in a prepared seedbed in early summer, thinning to 7cm (3in) apart and transplanting onto the vegetable plot once seedlings reach 10cm (4in) tall, planting them 2cm (1in) deeper than in the seed bed and with 45cm (18in) between plants. You can also sow into free-draining seed compost in pots or seed trays. Protect from slugs and net against pigeons.
Eventual height:
0.6m
Eventual spread:
0.45m
Position:
Full sun
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Fully hardy
approx 500 seeds
was £2.79
now £2.37
In stock
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