Purple Sprouting Broccoli (PSB) is a vibrant and attractive variety of broccoli featuring small purple or deep green florets atop slender, tender stalks. Originally cultivated in the Mediterranean region, it has been grown in the United Kingdom since the 18th century and has become especially popular amongst home gardeners due to its delicious taste, ornamental appearance, and high nutritional content.
Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber, iron, and calcium, Purple Sprouting Broccoli is not only visually appealing but also highly nutritious. In fact, it contains even more nutrients than regular green broccoli, making it a healthful addition to any meal.
A cold-season crop, Purple Sprouting Broccoli grows best in cool temperatures, with sowing taking place in early summer for a fall harvest or late summer for a spring harvest. One notable characteristic of PSB is its ability to withstand frost, which makes it an extremely hardy plant for growers in colder climates.
In the kitchen, the versatile Purple Sprouting Broccoli can be steamed, boiled, roasted, sautéed, or even eaten raw in salads. It pairs well with a variety of ingredients, such as garlic, olive oil, lemon, nuts, and cheeses. Try incorporating PSB into dishes like pasta, stir-fries, and quiches, where its rich flavor and colorful appearance will undoubtedly make an impression.
This is advice is most applicable to growers in the UK, you may need to adjust the timings if you live somewhere with a different climate and/or seasons.
| Month | Tasks | Advice |
|---|---|---|
| January | sow, | Sow seeds indoors in pots or trays for transplanting later. |
| February | - | - |
| March | plant out, | Transplant indoor-grown seedlings to their final growing position or sow seeds directly into the soil, if the weather permits. |
| April | plant out, | Transplant seedlings started indoors to their final positions, allowing 60-90 cm (24-36 inches) between plants. |
| May | - | - |
| June | - | - |
| July | - | - |
| August | - | - |
| September | - | - |
| October | - | - |
| November | - | - |
| December | harvest, | Begin to harvest broccoli spears when they reach desired size, usually starting in December and continuing through early spring. |
