Broccoli Sebastian

Broccoli Sebastian: variety and characteristics

Broccoli Sebastian (Brassica oleracea var. italica) is an annual vegetable of the Cabbage family (Brassicaceae). An early-maturing variety grown in both spring and autumn. The heads form after just 30-40 days, and in autumn after 45-50 days.

The variety is unique in that the dense dark green florets do not run to seed or crack.

The diameter of the broccoli is 10-15 cm. After the main head is cut, side heads of 4-5 cm diameter begin to grow, and these can be harvested even after steady frosts.

Broccoli is very nutritious. Its chemical composition is richer than that of cauliflower. It contains sugar, nitrogen and protein, as well as carotene, ascorbic acid, vitamin E, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium and magnesium.

Broccoli does not lose its nutritional and flavour qualities even after freezing. Broccoli protein contains choline methionine, which prevents cholesterol from building up in the body.

Broccoli is among the most valuable vegetables for health and gives two harvests — a central head and side shoots.

Key features

• Measured germination rate of the batch: 94%
• Seeds per packet: 153–207 pcs (0.6 g)
• Seed origin: Poland
• Sowing: April and May; seedlings
• Harvest: August and September
• Position: sunny spot

When to sow Broccoli Sebastian

Broccoli Sebastian seeds are sown in April and May. Harvest in August and September. The months are a guide for a temperate climate — in warmer areas sow 1–2 weeks earlier, in cooler or upland areas, later.

How to sow and grow Broccoli Sebastian

• Sowing method: seedlings
• Depth: 1 cm
• Spacing: 40–50 cm
• Germination: 5–10 days at 15–20 °C
• Position: sunny spot

Broccoli is grown both from transplants and by direct sowing. The most suitable time to sow seeds for transplants is early to mid April. The optimal temperature for seedlings is 18-19 °C by day and 6-7 degrees at night. The sowing depth is 1.5-2 cm, and the spacing between plants is 4x4 cm. Sprouts begin to appear on day 6-7. Seedlings are planted in their permanent position at 50-55 days old, planting pattern 65 x 65 cm. Seeds are sown in the ground from the first ten days of May. The row spacing is 60 cm, and between plants 20-30 cm. 10 days after planting out the seedlings, and also before the heads form, the broccoli should be fed.

Plant the seedlings in rich soil; water regularly and feed. They are suitable for spring and autumn growing.

Harvest and use

Cut the central head while the buds are still tightly closed; the plant then produces side shoots for weeks.

Frequently asked questions

When should Broccoli Sebastian be sown?

The recommended sowing months are April and May. Sowing method: seedlings.

How many seeds are in the packet?

The packet contains 153–207 seeds, pack size 0.6 g.

What is the germination rate of the seeds?

The measured germination rate of this batch is 94%. The test was carried out under controlled laboratory conditions; in the field, emergence depends on soil, temperature and moisture.

Does broccoli produce more than one head?

Yes — after the central head is cut, side shoots develop that are harvested for 3–6 weeks.