Calabrese Green Sprouting
75d to harvest
Tender, sweet sprouting florets emerge in a cascade of deep green—lush to the eye and delightfully mild on the palate. Calabrese Green Sprouting forms a sturdy, blue-green head that quickly gives way to abundant side shoots, each one crisp-tender with a fine, succulent bite. Ideal for gardeners who love repeat harvests, it shines in fresh salads and shines just as brightly when roasted, steamed, or folded into hearty sauces for weeknight abundance.
Crop Dates
Growing note: Zone 1b has only 61 frost-free days — shorter than this crop's 75-day maturity. Outdoor planting is not viable; use protected cultivation.
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Last Frost | Jun 1st |
| Growing Approach | Protected Environment Only |
Crop Details
| Trait | Value |
|---|---|
| Days to Maturity | 75 |
| Sun Requirements | Full Sun |
| Growth Habit | Upright |
| Support Needed | None |
| Planting Depth | Normal |
| Germination Temp (°F) | 45 |
| Min Soil Temp (°F) | 40 |
| Min Night Temp (°F) | 35 |
| Harden Off (days) | 6 |
Recommended Companions
Frequently Asked Questions
What disease is most likely on Calabrese (Brassica oleracea var. italica) and how do I treat it?
Watch for black rot, which shows as yellowing V-shaped leaf lesions that darken and spread, especially in cool, wet weather. Remove and destroy infected leaves immediately, avoid overhead watering, and improve airflow by spacing plants well. If it keeps spreading, rotate out of Brassicaceae beds for several years and consider an approved copper or biological fungicide labeled for brassicas in your area.
How often should I water Calabrese during the main growing phase?
During heading and sprout development, keep the soil evenly moist—aim for about 1 to 1.5 inches (2.5–4 cm) of water per week depending on rainfall. Water deeply when the top 1 inch of soil (2–3 cm) starts to dry, rather than giving frequent light sprinklings that encourage shallow roots and stress. Consistent moisture helps prevent uneven sprouting and bitter-tasting florets.
How can I tell when Calabrese is ready to harvest?
Harvest when the main head is fully formed and tight, with flower buds still firm and green, before any yellow blossoms appear. After cutting the main head, continue harvesting the side shoots when they reach the size of your thumb and the buds are still tight. For most home plantings, this is around 75 days from sowing/transplanting, but head firmness is the true trigger.