About 6 weeks ago, I planted broccoli raab (first time). It is now
blooming, and has lots of leaves, but does not have heads like broccoli raab
in the grocery story. The weather has mostly been cool so I don't think
heat is causing it to bolt, but maybe. Advice? Thanks
_________________
John Henry Wheeler
Washington, DC
USDA Zone 7

Like broccoli, it likes rich soil. Besides just "growing right", this helps
it grow FASTER so it matures before hot weather. Try side-dressing with
composted cow manure. The stuff comes out of the bag too wet sometimes, but
it's easier to spread when drier, so put it on the surface when you're
expecting no rain for a day or two, let it dry a little, and then work it
into the soil with a cultivator. Do that also in the area where you intend
to plant the fall crop.

If you expect the weather to heat up before the current plants mature, go
get some dark window screen and suspend it over the row of plants.

As far as the "heads", the stuff's still great to eat, even without the
heads.

"Compostman" wrote in message
...
About 6 weeks ago, I planted broccoli raab (first time). It is now
blooming, and has lots of leaves, but does not have heads like broccoli
raab in the grocery story. The weather has mostly been cool so I don't
think heat is causing it to bolt, but maybe. Advice? Thanks
_________________
John Henry Wheeler
Washington, DC
USDA Zone 7

bolts really fast. I do not bother to plant it in the spring anymore.
Strictly a fall vegetable, and the last one to get planted in september.