This is a sister line to the very popular Tenderstem seen in the supermarkets. Tasty broccoli spears on long edible tender stems are nutritionally rich, ideal for a healthy daily diet.

Sowing time: March to May.

Sow seeds into individual pots or a seed tray of a proprietary compost and cover with 6mm (¼in) of compost or vermiculite, at a minimum of 15C ( 60F), until germination which takes around 7 days. Alternatively, can be sown thinly in a prepared seedbed 13mm (½in) deep, allowing 30cm (12in) between rows.

Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle into larger pots, or transplant from the seedbed around 5 weeks from sowing, allowing 60cm (24in) each way.

Best steamed, but also delicious in stir fries or eaten as a raw vegetable.