Courgette Romanesco Seeds

Sow indoors for surest results, March-May, 1.5cm (½") deep, on edge, in small pots of compost. Water well and place in a warm position. A temperature of 15-20°C (60-68°F) is ideal. Keep moist. Seedlings usually appear in 7-14 days. Gradually accustom plants to outside conditions (avoid frosts), before planting out 60cm (2') apart, into fertile, well-drained soil, during May-June when frosts are over. Or sow outdoors, April-May for ease, where they are to crop, 1.5cm (½") deep, directly into finely-prepared, fertile, well-drained soil, which has already been watered. Allow 60cm (2') between sowing positions. Sow two seeds on edge per position. Early sowings benefit from cloche protection. Thin to leave the stronger plant. Water well until plants are established. Harvest: July-October. Cut the courgettes when they are about 15cm (6") long, or leave to mature as marrows.