Sprouting Broccolis in Barnston

Sow seeds in modules around 2nd March - 17th March, about 1 cm deep. Keep them in bright, cool conditions and prick out the seedlings once they have a couple of true leaves.

From 23rd March, keep the young plants moving steadily in good light and water them lightly but regularly. Avoid letting them become pot-bound, as checked growth can lead to weaker plants later.

Harden off seedlings over 15 days from 6th April to 20th April. Give them a few days outside in shelter, then leave them out for longer each day before planting.

Plant out from 30th April, setting each plant 60 cm apart in rows spaced wider than that. Water in thoroughly straight after planting, then firm the soil hard around the stems so the roots do not rock in the wind.

From 7th May, cover the crop with fine mesh to keep out cabbage white butterflies and pigeons. Fit brassica collars round the stems at planting time or soon after to reduce cabbage root fly damage.

Start feeding from 28th May and repeat every 28 days until 8th October. Use a high-nitrogen feed while the plants are making leaves, then stop before the coldest weather so the growth stays firm rather than soft.

Cut the first side shoots from 6th December and keep picking until 16th March. Harvest the shoots while they are tight and tender, cutting just above a leaf joint so more side shoots can follow.