An outstanding introduction allowing an abundance of quality purple spears to be picked from early summer right through to late autumn. Bordeaux requires no cold stimulus to produce its traditional tasting spears. Prefers a moist, rich, well-drained soil. Not winter hardy.

Sow April to June. Sow 1cm (½ inch) deep in drills 23cm (9 inches) apart in soil which has been raked to a fine tilth and which contains plenty of compost or manure. It may also be beneficial to rake in 100g/sq m of any balanced fertiliser.

Transplant when seedlings have 5-6 leaves, spacing by 75cm (30 inches) each way.

Water regularly, especially in dry periods. Hoe between plants and give liquid feed as heads develop.

Cheese, broccoli and tomato makes a fantastic pizza topping!