Broccoli is a super-food. It has gained popularity due to its high nutrient content and ability to help prevent cancer.

Sowing

Sow broccoli seeds 13mm (0.5in) deep and in rows 15cm (6in) apart. When seedlings show, thin them to 7.5cm (3in) apart. Sowing generally takes place in April and May, although it is still possible to sow in March and June in warmer regions.

Broccoli seeds can also be sown indoors using trays.

Growing

When the young broccoli plants are 10-15cm (4-6in) tall, move to their growing positions and leave 45cm (18in) between each plant.

Water well in dry weather, and an occasional fertiliser feed will help improve the results.

Birds can be a problem, and so it may be wise to place in a greenhouse or to cover them with a net when the heads start to appear. Or you can stand watch all day if you’re up for it.

Harvesting

Begin to harvest before the flowers open. Cutting the central spear first will encourage sideshoots to grow, allowing you to pick regularly over the following few weeks.