Purple Peacock Broccoli

This open-pollinated variety is a cross between broccoli and two kales, absolutely beautiful either in the garden or edible landscape. The young leaves are tender, great for salads and the older colorful serrated leaves are used like kale. Loose heads of purple florets are not too large and taste excellent. The plant also produces generous side shoots. This is definitely broccoli you will want to show off to the visitors of your garden.

PLANTING

Germination: 3-10 days

Germination Temperature: Optimum soil temperatures 65-85ºF.

Seed Sowing Depth: 1/4” deep

Starting Indoors: 4-6 weeks before the last frost. Sow 2-3 seeds per cell/pot. Thin to the strongest seedling. Fertilize the seedlings every 7-10 days with a liquid or water-soluble fertilizer, diluted to ¼ of suggested measurement. Transplant a week or two before the last frost. Space 12-18" apart. Sow in early to midsummer for fall crops. 

Sowing Outdoors: Spring when the soil temperature reaches at least 55ºF. Sow 2-3 seeds every 12-18” apart. Thin to the strongest seedling per space. Sow in midsummer for fall crops. Germination is slower at lower soil temperatures.

Harvest: Pick when heads are tight before flower buds start to open. For varieties that produce side, shoots keep picked for a longer production

Tips: Provide fertile soil, rich in organic matter from the very beginning of its growth in the garden. Give adequate, even moisture for the best growth. Mulching helps retain moisture.