Stromboli F1 is a vigorous calabrese producing tasty, dark green domed heads with long, branched florets and plenty of side shoots to follow. Particularly suited to autumn sowing, it has excellent resistance to ‘blindness’, a problem that can affect young calabrese plants growing through cold, low-light conditions. Sow in autumn for an early crop the following spring, or sow again from spring into early summer for later harvests.
Sow: for an early crop, sow into modules from September to early November, about 10–15mm deep. Grow the young plants on under protection through the winter. Stromboli can also be sown from February to June for harvesting later in the year.
Grow: pot on autumn-sown plants as they grow, or plant into greenhouse or polytunnel borders about 50cm apart. Large pots are another option and have the advantage that they can be moved outside in spring to free up space under cover. Protect from hard frosts with fleece, but remove it when it isn't needed so the plants get as much winter light as possible.
Spring-sown plants will grow considerably larger, so allow around 60cm between them. Keep plants well watered during dry spells and protect from cabbage white butterflies and pigeons.
Enjoy: cut the main head while the florets are still tight and before any yellow flowers begin to open. Don't pull the plant up afterwards because Stromboli will keep producing smaller side shoots for further pickings. Steam, roast or stir-fry the florets, or simply serve with a knob of butter.
💡 Did you know?
‘Blindness’ in calabrese has nothing to do with eyesight! It is the name given to a growing problem where the central growing point stops developing, so the plant fails to produce its proper head. It is particularly associated with young plants growing through cold, low-light winter conditions.
Stromboli has excellent resistance to blindness, which is one of the reasons it is such a good choice for autumn sowing and overwintering.
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