Pruning guide

How to prune calabrese broccoli

Best time

At first harvest when the central head is tight and fully sized, before florets open

How often

Once for the main head; then harvest side shoots every few days as they form

Technique

Cut the central stem at a 45-degree angle 10–15 cm below the head with a sharp, clean knife. Leave the plant in the ground; side shoots will develop from the leaf axils.

More calabrese broccoli care

Pruning calabrese broccoli — FAQ

When should I prune calabrese broccoli?

At first harvest when the central head is tight and fully sized, before florets open. Cut the central stem at a 45-degree angle 10–15 cm below the head with a sharp, clean knife. Leave the plant in the ground; side shoots will develop from the leaf axils.

How often does calabrese broccoli need pruning?

Once for the main head; then harvest side shoots every few days as they form. Calabrese broccoli benefits from one key cut: harvest the central head promptly once it reaches full size but before florets begin to open and yellow. Cutting cleanly just below the head encourages the plant to produce smaller side shoots for a second, extended harvest over several more weeks.

How do you prune calabrese broccoli?

Cut the central stem at a 45-degree angle 10–15 cm below the head with a sharp, clean knife. Leave the plant in the ground; side shoots will develop from the leaf axils.