'Romanesco' is increasing in popularity. Veronica produces individual florets with lovely spirals giving a magical appearance from late summer to early frosts, from successional plantings. Protect heads against frost with fleece to extend season.

Sowing Time: March to June. Sow thinly, 1cm (1/2in) deep in drills 23cm (9in) apart in well-drained, fertile soil, which has been raked to a fine tilth and contains plenty of well-rotted compost or organic matter. It will also be beneficial to rake in 3oz/sq yard of any balanced fertiliser.

Transplant when seedlings have 5-6 leaves, spacing by 45-60cm (18-24in) apart each way. Water ground regularly, especially in dry periods. Hoe between plants occasionally, and give a liquid feed as heads begin to develop.