broccoli raab

[DonnaMarieNJ]

I started from seed and it is now a single stalk, 2 inches high, just potted up to the solo cup.

HOWEVER, it is flowering! Beautiful tiny yellow blooms.

Should I start new seeds? It is my understanding that once it flowers, it is done for. Not true? This is my first time growing.

Thanks.

[RayR]

You want to harvest it before it blooms when the florets are still tender. I've never tried growing it for transplant, always direct seeded outdoors in the spring. I'm not surprised it bolted after potting up, it's one of those plants that responds to any stress by bolting.

[Stvrob]

I agree, grow it in the ground. Also, if it bolts on you in the spring (not saying it will), dont give up... try it again for a fall crop. You might find it slower to bolt, though Im not sure of your particular growing conditions.

[DonnaMarieNJ]

Therein lies my problem. I'll plant more seed outside. Thanks!

[DonnaMarieNJ]

BTW, which seeds should I direct sow besides broccoli raab? I probably have more in the solo cups to be guilty about

[Stvrob]

Most things can and should be direct sown. Tomatoes and peppers are somewhat exceptional in that regard because they are easy to transplant and there is such a big benefit to starting them early. melons and cucumbers can be transplanted but only when they are small.

[geoffrey44]

Actually I am not certain about the direct sowing.
I planted broc raab direct and it flowered and bolted really quickly...Had to keep cropping it about every third day but still had a problem controlling it.
I now plant all my brassicas seeds in seed raising mix and as soon as up place them under the lights... Otherwise the bloody things get so leggy they become uncontrollable.
They really do well under the lights and respond positively when they are transplanted..
Pic of Brocc and Cauli taken about 7 weeks after transplant
Geoff