Comparison of With Other Varieties
Broccoli is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that comes in several different varieties, offering various flavors, textures, and growth habits. One popular variety is Broccoli de Cicco Green. To understand its unique characteristics, let's compare it with other Broccoli varieties and explore what makes de Cicco Green special.
Firstly, unlike some other Broccoli varieties that produce one large central head, de Cicco Green is known as a sprouting type. This means that instead of a single head, it produces multiple smaller heads, enabling a longer harvest period. This continual sprouting allows for a more prolonged harvesting season, making de Cicco Green an excellent choice for home gardeners who prefer a steady supply of fresh broccoli rather than a one-time harvest.
In terms of flavor, de Cicco Green has a milder taste compared to some other Broccoli varieties, which can sometimes have a stronger and more bitter flavor. This mildness makes it a great option for those who are new to eating broccoli or prefer a subtler taste. Additionally, the smaller heads tend to be more tender and have a more delicate texture, making them enjoyable to eat both raw and cooked.
One advantage of de Cicco Green over other varieties is its adaptability to a wider range of climates and growing conditions. It is a relatively early-maturing variety, ready for harvest in around 60-75 days. This allows gardeners in cooler regions with shorter growing seasons to still enjoy a successful broccoli crop. Furthermore, de Cicco Green has shown good resistance to certain pests and diseases, including downy mildew and aphids, making it a hardy choice for organic gardeners who prefer to minimize the use of pesticides.
The history of de Cicco Green dates back to the early 20th century in Italy, where it was first developed by Italian seed company Franchi Sementi. It was named after the de Cicco family, who played a significant role in breeding and selecting this variety. Since then, de Cicco Green has gained popularity worldwide for its unique characteristics and versatility in the garden.
To purchase de Cicco Green, seeds can be found in specialty gardening stores, online seed catalogs, or directly from seed suppliers. It is always recommended to choose reputable sources to ensure the quality and authenticity of the seeds. Some well-known seed companies that offer de Cicco Green include Franchi Sementi, Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds, and Johnny's Selected Seeds.
In conclusion, de Cicco Green is a sprouting type of Broccoli that produces multiple smaller heads, has a milder taste, and adapts well to various growing conditions. Its continual sprouting ensures a more extended harvest period, making it a favorite choice among home gardeners. With its versatility and resistance to pests and diseases, de Cicco Green holds its own among other Broccoli varieties, providing an enjoyable and reliable addition to any vegetable garden.