(Brassica oleracea) The (justifiably) much-maligned public opinion of open-pollinated broccoli among commercial growers has started to change based on the attentive stewardship and selection work that have gone into a couple varieties in this category over the past decade. “Solstice” comes out of a gene pool started at OSU and later later selected on for several years by Jonathan Spero of Lupine Knoll Farm in Southern Oregon. Big Vigorous plants hold their tight, dark green heads high above the leaves on very long stems with excellent side shoot production. Maturity is much more uniform than most OPs while still giving about a week+ harvest window, a feature we find to be a positive attribute. Very early maturing! 70 days. UO *OSSI*
We are saddened by the loss of Jonathan Spero,an exceptional and generous human, plant breeder,and food grower who passed from this world April, 2020.
Packet: 100 seeds
*This seed has tested negative for both Black Leg (Phoma lingam) and Black Rot (Xanthomonus campestris) as required by the WA Dept of Ag crucifer seed quarantine.
Note: Broccoli prefers well drained soil with high organic matter, consistent water, and cooler temperatures for optimal growth although warmer temperatures will be tolerated.
PLANTING DEPTH:
1/4-1/2""
SPACING:
18" spacing in rows 24-30" apart.
EMERGENCE:
5-14 days @ soil temp 55-75F
LIGHT:
Full sun to part shade
FERTILITY:
Medium-Heavy. Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0-7.5.
ADDITIONAL NOTES:
Broccoli will reward you with abundant side shoots for weeks, especially if you continue to harvest them.
