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Learning all about Growing Romanesco Broccolican be a rewarding experience if you want to enjoy its earthy and nutty flavor.
Also popular as Broccoli Apple, this Mediterranean vegetable forms a major part of Italian cuisine. If you, too, want to enjoy the earthy and nutty flavor of this brassica fresh in your salads, sauteed or steamed, then here’s everything about Growing Romanesco Broccoli.
Check out our article on growing broccoli in potshere
Romanesco Broccoli Information
Table of contents
Romanesco Broccoli is a type of Brassica that was first grown via selective breeding around the fifteenth century in Italy. The plant is also believed to be a cross between broccoli and cauliflower. It tastes delicious and has a flavor of both broccoli and cauliflower but milder, which makes it perfect for salads and sandwiches.
Plant seeds 4-6 weeks before the last average frost date in your region.
Sow seeds in a well-draining potting mix.
When the seedlings grow up to 3-4 inches, transplant them to the garden or continue to grow them in a container that’s at least 10-12 inches wide.
Put the pot in a location that enjoys bright but indirect sunlight in an area.
Keep the soil evenly moist and not soggy.
Note: If you are looking forward to a fall or winter harvest, transplant the seedlings in the garden in summer. For regions with mild winters, you can plant them in the fall.
Best Companion Plants for Romanesco Broccoli
Dill, artichokes, chard, beet, carrot, celery, cucumber, spinach, beans, oregano, peas, potatoes, sage, and thyme are some of the best plants you can grow with them.
For best growth and size, locate the plant where it gets at least 3-5 hours of bright and direct sunlight every day. Growing it in a shaded location will result in small broccoli.
If you live in a warm climate, protect it from the long exposure to harsh afternoon sun. This will help the plant avoid bolting.
Soil
Romanesco Broccoli loves rich, loamy soil full of organic matter with good drainage. It will grow the best between a pH range of 6.0-6.8. The plant also requires a bit of acidity.
Adding a bit of leaf mold into the growing medium will do wonders for soil texture.
Water
This plant likes evenly and consistently moist soil, but it should not be wet or soggy. Also, it is best to water the veggie from the base and not overhead to prevent root rot.
Add a layer of mulch to help retain moisture in the soil. Also, never let the growing medium go dry completely.
Add compost to the soil before transplanting to improve the drainage and nutrient content. Also, side-dress with aged manure during the mid-growth.
Using a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to 1/2 of its strength, once in 2-3 weeks will be good enough as well.
Pruning
Typically, pruning is not necessary for this vegetable, but you should regularly get rid of any diseased or damaged plant parts before they can cause any harm to the whole plant.
Pests and Diseases
Romanesco broccoli is prone to pests that affect cauliflower and broccoli. Keep an eye on pests like cutworms, cabbage loopers, and cabbage worms. If you see them, use a strong jet of water to get rid of them, or try insecticidal soap or neem oil as these are organic solutions.
In diseases, be on a lookout for clubroot and downy mildew. Pick disease-resistant varieties and provide proper air circulation between plants.
The heads are ready for harvest in 80-100 days from the date of sowing the seeds. Wait until they are large, or you can even pick the smaller ones for a soft and milder taste.
It is best to eat romanesco broccoli as fresh as possible. It can be blanched, sautéed, and roasted. You can store it for 1-2 weeks in a cool larder or refrigerator.
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