Romanesco Broccoli
Brassica oleracea var. botrytis (Romanesco Group)

 

Romanesco Broccoli Plant

Romanesco broccoli is an annual that thrives in well-drained, fertile soil and full sun. It's frost-tolerant and has moderate growth.
Picture illustrating Romanesco Broccoli plant

Habit

Annual

Height

30-90 cm

Growth

Moderate

Soil

well drained, loamy

Shade

Full Sun

Moisture

Moist 

Edible

Yes

Medicinal

No

Origin

Italy

Climatic Condition

Cool, Temperate

Temperature (°)

10-22°C

Humidity (%)

50-80%

Potting media

Field soil

Fertilizers

Nitrogen-rich fertilizers

Watering

Regular

Plant Weight 

500 g - 1 kg

Flowering Time

Fall to Winter

Soil Ph level

6.0 - 7.5

Water Ph level

6.0 - 7.5

Soil EC

1-2 dS/m

Yield Per Plant 

1-2 kg per plant

NPK ratio 

10:10:10

life Span

Annual

Health Benefits

High in Vitamin C, fiber

Suggested Grow Media or Potting Mix ?

50% loam, 25% compost, 25% sand


Suggested Fertigation/Fertilizers

Fertilize every 4 weeks with a balanced fertilizer.

Common Diseases and Remedies

black leg

elongated , form brown lesions on root

neem oil

Chloropicrin, Methyl Bromide

                  HEALTH BENEFITS

· High in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants.

  • Supports digestion, heart health, and reduces oxidative stress.

What Is A Romanesco Broccoli?

Romanesco broccoli is actually a variety of cauliflower rather than broccoli. This is the edible flower bud of the Brassica oleracea species, which also includes regular broccoli and cauliflower. The color is yellow-green and the shape naturally resembles a fractal.  

a close up view of a bunch of broccoli

What Are The Different types of Romanesco broccoli?  Roasted Romanesco Also known as  Romanesco cauliflower, this vegetable can be roasted, sauteed, or fried.   Broccolini  A hybrid of Chinese broccoli, this plant is characterized by sweet-tasting small flowers.   Broccoli Rabe  This vegetable is more bitter than regular broccoli.   Apollo Broccoli  This hybrid variety has compact heads, small inflorescences and a deep green color.   Arcadia Broccoli  This variety has small purplish-green heads and tolerates low temperatures well.


a green plant sitting on top of a cement floor


How to care for Romanesco broccoli?

1. Location: -

If growing in cool weather, place in full sun. In warm climates, it grows in light shade. Broccoli evaporates a lot of water, so the soil needs to be constantly moist for optimal growth.  

2.Sunshine:-  

Romanesco plants require sufficient sun to produce edible heads. Plants need 6 to 8 hours of sunlight each day.

 3.Soil:-

 The plant or seed should be planted in well-drained fertile loamy soil. Soil should be rich in organic matter and have a pH of 6.0 to 7.5.  

4. Hydration:-

 Plants require abundant and consistent moisture to produce edible heads. The soil should not completely dry out between waterings.  

green and white flower bouquet

5.Nourishment:-

 consumes large amounts of nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus. If soil fertility is low, apply 1/2 cup of balanced fertilizer (5-5 -5 NPK). Place the fertilizer 6 inches from the plant and water the soil.

 6. Issues:-  

Pythium blight  

Downy mildew  

Alternaria leaf spot  

Black rot  

Cabbage roots

 Bacterial leaf spot  

Bacterial soft rot  

What are the benefits of Romanesco broccoli ?  

Romanesco is rich in vitamin C and the carotenoids lutein, zeaxanthin, and beta-carotene, which act as antioxidants, fight free radicals, strengthen the immune system, and promote healthy skin.  

a green plant sitting on top of a cement floor

FAQ's about growing Romanesco broccoli? 

 1. What is Romanesco Broccoli?

Unique variety of broccoli is known for its striking appearance, featuring a fractal-like spiral pattern.  

2. How to grow Romanesco broccoli?  

Start seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost date. Plant the seedlings outdoors as soon as soil is available. Plant in sunny, well-drained soil.  

3. What are the ideal growing conditions for Romanesco broccoli?

Prefers a cool climate and grows best at temperatures between 15 and 21 °C. Requires moist, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.  

4. How long does it take to grow Romanesco broccoli?  

Takes approximately 90 to 100 days to mature from seed to harvest. However, this may vary depending on growing conditions and the specific variety.

 5. Do I need to fertilize Romanesco broccoli?

 Yes, feed Romanesco broccoli with a balanced high nitrogen fertilizer.

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