Organic 'Gai Lan Blue Star' Broccoli
identification
description
Broccoli gai lan 'Blue Star' (Brassica oleracea), offered by Ferme Tourne-Sol
Gai Lan 'Blue Star' broccoli is a fast-growing Chinese variety, prized for its thick, crisp stems and delicate green florets . Highly valued in Asian cuisine, it is distinguished by its tender texture and mild, slightly herbaceous flavor, which enhances stir-fries and quick cooking methods.
Particularly early-maturing , 'Blue Star' allows for quick and repeated harvests. Its vigor and uniformity make it an excellent choice for gardeners who want to produce nutritious greens in a short time, while enjoying simple and efficient cultivation.
Type: Annual leafy vegetable
Plant habit: Upright
Plant height: Approximately 30 to 45 cm
Quantity per packet: 125 seeds
Maturity: Approximately 35 days
Family: Brassicaceae
Uses: Stir-fries, Asian dishes, fast food
Companion plants: Lettuce, spinach, radish, carrot, peas
Negative plants: Other brassicas in the same location (rotation recommended)
Farming method
Gailan 'Blue Star' broccoli is started indoors about 4 weeks before transplanting , then planted out after the last frost . It is sensitive to frost and should be grown during the frost-free season. Plant in full sun to partial shade , in fertile, cool, and well-drained soil .
For continuous production, sow seeds every 2 to 4 weeks . Space them sufficiently to allow for the development of thick stems and to avoid water stress. Regular watering promotes rapid growth and optimal texture.
Harvesting and use
Harvest when the stems are well-formed and before the flowers are fully open. Cut the main stem; depending on conditions, new side shoots may appear. Gai lan is excellent stir-fried quickly over high heat , blanched, or added to soups and noodles.
Quick, tender and tasty
Growing gai lan 'Blue Star' broccoli means choosing an ultra-fast, productive and versatile variety, perfect for diversifying the vegetable garden and bringing a fresh and nutritious Asian touch to the table.
