Spring Raab Broccoli (42 Days)

Called Broccoli Raab or Rapini, this is a non-heading broccoli with abundant, large leaves and delicate buds. Grown through the season, the top 6-8” or so of leaves and unopened flowers are usually harvested. This green is quite distinctive; peppery and pungent, and not served raw, but usually steamed or sauteed for recipes. 

250 seeds

PLANTING

Brassica oleracea

Germination: 3-10 days

Germination Temperature: Optimum soil temperatures 65-85ºF.

Seed Sowing Depth: 1/4” deep

Starting Indoors: 4-6 weeks before the last frost. Sow 2-3 seeds per cell/pot. Thin to the strongest seedling. Fertilize the seedlings every 7-10 days with a liquid or water-soluble fertilizer, diluted to ¼ of the suggested measurement. Transplant a week or two before the last frost. Space 12-18" apart. Sow in early to mid-summer for fall crops. 

Sowing Outdoors: Spring, when soil temperature reaches at least 55ºF. Sow 2-3 seeds every 12-18” apart. Thin to the strongest seedling per space. Sow in midsummer for fall crops. Germination is slower at lower soil temperatures.

Tips: Provide Broccoli Raab with fertile soil, rich in organic matter, from the very beginning of its growth in the garden. Give adequate, even moisture for the best growth. Mulching helps retain moisture.