Christmas Broccoli (100 days) - 6 plants - Orto Mio

Christmas Broccoli: the star of Campania tables

The Christmas Broccoli is a renowned variety of broccoli from the Campania tradition, a must-have on tables during the year-end festivities. This variety stands out for its delicate and less bitter flavor compared to common friarielli, making it perfect for those seeking a more refined taste.

In the kitchen, both the tall and sturdy stems and the tender broccoli florets are used, ideal as a side dish seasoned with extra virgin olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and chili pepper.

Growing Characteristics

Exposure: Full Sun
Plants that prefer full sun require a south-facing position, with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day, even during the 3-4 central summer hours. The exposure indicates how many hours of direct sunlight the plant needs for optimal growth. It can be full sun, partial shade, or shade, depending on the amount of natural light the plant needs to thrive and produce fruit. This information helps position the plants to encourage their growth.

Harvest Time: 100 days
The harvest time indicates how many days it takes for the fruit to be ready for picking (note: ripening may occur at different times than indicated, influenced by climatic factors, irrigation, and soil fertility).

Transplant Distance: 50x50
The transplant distance is the space between plants at the time of planting, both in-row and between rows. A correct distance avoids competition for light and nutrients, promoting growth and production, while spaces that are too tight or too wide can negatively affect the quantity and quality of the fruits.

Yield: 700 kg
Indicates the average yield of the plant under normal growing conditions. This value can vary depending on factors such as the harvest phase, fertilization practices, and climatic conditions. In the first harvests, the yield may be lower than the indicated values. Additionally, conditions such as drought, water shortage, temperature fluctuations, and poor or excessive nitrogen fertilization affect fruit growth, which may be above or below expectations.

Tips for Extended Harvest

The ideal transplant period is between mid-August and September. It is usually ready after about 90 days, but ripening can begin between 80 and 110 days or more, depending on climatic conditions and planting time.

Harvesting begins as early as November and continues until January thanks to the regrowth produced after the first harvest. The production of new broccoli florets after the first is more abundant in fertile, well-fertilized soils and in mild climatic conditions.

Strategy for Staggered Harvests: Many gardeners perform 2 staggered transplants 2-3 weeks apart between mid-August and mid-September to achieve extended harvests.