Broccoli, Calabrese - 1/2oz

History of Calabrese Broccoli

The Calabrese Broccoli traces its origins to the region of Calabria in Italy. Italian immigrants brought this variety to the United States in the late 19th century, and it has since become one of the most popular types of broccoli grown in North American gardens. Its large, domed heads and side shoots make it an ideal choice for home growers seeking quantity and quality in their broccoli crops.

Planting and Growing Conditions

Growing Calabrese Broccoli is straightforward, if you give it the right conditions to thrive. It can be grown in spring and fall as a cool-weather crop, making it highly adaptable to different climates and growing seasons.

Seed Variety: Broccoli, Calabrese
Botanical Name: Brassica oleracea var. italica
Light Requirements: Full Sun
Planting Depth: 1/4-1/2 in.
Seed Spacing: 12-18 in.
Spacing Between Rows: 18-24 in.
Thinning Height: 1-2 in.
Space After Thinning: 18-24 in.

Light and Soil Requirements

Calabrese Broccoli thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. It prefers rich, well-drained soil amended with organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure. The ideal pH for growing broccoli is between 6.0 and 7.0, ensuring the plant can efficiently absorb nutrients.

To prepare the soil for planting, loosen it to a depth of about 12 inches, removing any weeds or rocks that may hinder growth. Before planting, a balanced vegetable fertilizer will provide the nutrients needed for optimal development.

Seed Planting Guidelines

When planting Calabrese Broccoli seeds, sow them at a depth of 1/4 to 1/2 inch in well-prepared soil. The seeds should be spaced about 12-18 inches apart, allowing the plants to have enough room to grow large heads without crowding. Space rows 18-24 inches apart to ensure proper air circulation, which helps prevent disease.

If direct sowing is used, seeds should be planted about 6-8 weeks before the last frost for a spring crop or 10-12 weeks before the first frost for a fall crop. Broccoli seeds germinate best when the soil temperature is between 60°F and 70°F.

Thinning and Transplanting

Once seedlings have grown to 1-2 inches, thin them out, leaving 18-24 inches of space between each plant. This allows the broccoli to develop large, healthy heads. If starting seeds indoors, you can transplant seedlings into the garden once they are about 3-4 inches tall and after the risk of frost has passed.

Care and Maintenance

Calabrese Broccoli is relatively low-maintenance, but regular care will ensure a productive and healthy harvest.

Watering

Broccoli prefers consistent moisture, so water is regularly used to moisten the soil, but it is not waterlogged. Water the plants at the base to avoid wetting the leaves, which can lead to fungal diseases. A deep soaking every few days is better than frequent, shallow watering, as this encourages the development of deep roots.

Fertilization

To support the growth of large heads, fertilize your Calabrese Broccoli plants with a balanced vegetable fertilizer. Apply fertilizer once the seedlings have established themselves and again after the plants have reached about 6 inches in height. Additional feedings during the growing season, mainly when heads form, can promote more prominent, vigorous heads.

Mulching

Applying a layer of mulch around the base of the plants helps retain moisture, suppresses weeds, and maintains a more consistent soil temperature. Organic mulch, such as straw or shredded leaves, works well and will break down to enrich the soil over time.

Harvesting Calabrese Broccoli

Calabrese Broccoli is typically ready for harvest within 60-90 days after planting, depending on the growing conditions. The heads should be harvested when fully formed but before the individual flower buds open. When ready, the heads will measure about 4-8 inches across and have a deep green color and firm texture.

To harvest, use a sharp knife to cut the main head off, leaving about 6 inches of stem attached. One of the unique qualities of Calabrese Broccoli is its ability to produce side shoots after the main head is harvested. These side shoots will continue to grow, providing additional smaller heads for several weeks after the initial harvest, significantly extending the yield.

Storing and Preserving

After harvesting, Calabrese Broccoli can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you wish to preserve it for longer, broccoli freezes exceptionally well. To freeze, blanch the heads briefly in boiling water, then transfer them to an ice bath to cool before placing them in freezer-safe bags or containers.

Culinary Uses

Calabrese Broccoli is incredibly versatile in the kitchen. Its mild flavor and crisp texture make it suitable for both raw and cooked dishes. You can enjoy it in salads, stir-fries, soups, casseroles, or steamed with butter and lemon. The broccoli plant's heads stems, and leaves are all edible, making it a zero-waste vegetable.

Fresh or Frozen

This broccoli variety retains its flavor and texture, whether fresh or frozen. Fresh Calabrese Broccoli is excellent when eaten raw in salads, hummus, or yogurt-based dips. It pairs well with various herbs, garlic, and cheese when cooked. Frozen broccoli can be added to soups, casseroles, or pasta dishes with minimal preparation for those looking to preserve their harvest.

Final Thoughts 

The Calabrese Broccoli is an easy-to-grow, highly productive heirloom variety that brings flavor and nutrition to your table. Its large, firm heads and continuous production of side shoots make it an excellent addition to any garden. 

Whether grown in spring or fall, this broccoli variety offers a vitamin-rich harvest that can be enjoyed fresh or preserved for later use. Its rich history, ease of cultivation, and versatility in the kitchen make it a must-have for both gardeners and cooks.