Broccoli - Romanesco

Minimum Seed Count: 50

Romanesco broccoli is one of the most striking vegetables you’ll ever see—almost like nature’s own piece of art. 🌿🥦

Its head is made up of tightly packed, lime-green florets arranged in a mesmerizing spiral pattern, following a natural fractal design. Each cone-like floret is a smaller, repeating version of the whole, giving it a geometric, almost futuristic appearance. The texture is crisp and firm, and it holds its shape beautifully whether steamed, roasted, or eaten raw.

Flavor-wise, Romanesco falls between broccoli and cauliflower—milder than broccoli, but nuttier and slightly sweeter than cauliflower. Its delicate taste makes it versatile in the kitchen, pairing well with garlic, olive oil, cheese sauces, and roasted vegetables.

Gardeners love it not just for its unique look but also for being relatively easy to grow in cool seasons, thriving best in spring or fall. Beyond the visual appeal, it’s packed with vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, making it as healthy as it is beautiful.

🌿 Planting Guide:

Start Indoors:

• Begin seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before your last spring frost date.

• Sow ¼–½ inch deep in seed trays or pots.

• Keep soil temperature between 65–75°F for best germination.

Transplanting Outdoors:

• Harden off seedlings before moving them outside.

• Transplant when plants are 4–6 weeks old and have at least 4–6 true leaves.

• Set in the garden 2–4 weeks before last frost in spring, or late summer for a fall crop.

Spacing:

• Plant seedlings 18–24 inches apart in rows 24–36 inches apart.

• Give them plenty of room since heads can grow large and need airflow.

Soil Needs:

• Prefers fertile, well-draining soil rich in organic matter.

• Ideal pH: 6.0–7.0.

• Add compost before planting for strong growth.

Watering:

• Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy.

• About 1–1.5 inches of water per week is ideal.

Fertilizing:

• Side-dress with a nitrogen-rich fertilizer when plants are about half-grown.

• Continue feeding every 3–4 weeks until heads begin forming.

Growing Conditions:

• Romanesco thrives in cool weather (55–75°F).

• Heat can cause poor head development or early bolting, so fall crops often do best.

Harvesting:

• Heads are ready 75–100 days from transplant (depending on variety).

• Harvest when the head is firm, bright green, and fully formed—but before florets start to separate.

• Cut at the base with a sharp knife.

🌱 Tip: Romanesco is a little more finicky than standard broccoli or cauliflower, but with steady watering and cool temps, you’ll be rewarded with stunning, spiral heads!