Broccoli 'Purple Rain' F1 - SeedsBrassica oleracea (Italica Group)

Sow thinly 6mm (1?4in) deep in a seed tray of good quality seed compost and lightly cover with a sprinkling of vermiculite. Place tray in a propagator at 20-25C (68-77F) until after germination which usually takes 4-7 days. Transplant seedlings into 7.5cm (3in) pots and grow on until plants have 2-3 true leaves.

Alternatively, sow sprouting broccoli seeds in a well-prepared seed bed from March to June at a depth of 13mm (1/2") and spaced 30cm (12") apart. Transplant to their final positions around 5 weeks later when the seedlings have four or five leaves.

When growing purple sprouting broccoli, choose a sheltered position in firm, rich fertile, well drained soil in full sun. Prepare the soil in early spring by adding plenty of well rotted farmyard manure to the soil to improve its structure and fertility. Plant purple sprouting broccoli deeply for stability at a distance of 60cm (24") apart, and cover with a protective netting or fleece to prevent attack from birds and insects. Water the plants thoroughly after planting.

After planting, firm in well and keep watered until established. Use netting to protect against pigeons and cabbage caterpillar. Water sprouting broccoli plants regularly and do not allow them to dry out as this may impair their development. Hoe between plants regularly to prevent weeds from establishing and bring insect larvae to the surface. Purple sprouting broccoli should be harvested before the flowers open. Pick shoots when they are 15cm (6") long. Regular picking will encourage more shoots to be produced. Don't remove the large leaves as these will protect the next batch of shoots as they develop. Culinary note: Sprouting broccoli is suitable for freezing.

A good source of vitamins A, C, K and folate and provides fifty percent of the daily requirement in a single 80g (2.82oz) portion.

Seeds and garden supplies will normally be delivered within the time period stated against each product as detailed above. Plants, bulbs, corms, tubers, shrubs, trees, potatoes, etc. are delivered at the appropriate time for planting or potting on. Delivery times will be stated on the product page above, or in your order acknowledgement page and email.

Orders for packets of seed incur a delivery charge of £2.99.

Orders which include any other products will incur a delivery charge of £6.99.

Where an order includes both packets of seeds and other products, a maximum delivery charge of £7.99 will apply - regardless of the number of items ordered.

Large Non-standard items may incur a higher, lorry delivery charge. Charges will be calculated at checkout, but an example of the lorry charges are listed below.

• Red - £9.99.
• Purple - £2.99.

For more information please visit our delivery charges information page by clicking here.

For more information on how we send your plants please visit our Helpful Guide on plant sizes.