Brassicas – Spring Rapini

Spring Rapini, scientifically known as Brassica rapa subsp. rapa ‘Spring Rapini’, is a delightful leafy vegetable that belongs to the Brassica family. This plant type is a cool-season annual that thrives in a position that receives full sun to partial shade.

Spring Rapini prefers well-drained soil that is fertile, rich in organic matter, and slightly acidic. When it comes to spacing, it is recommended to plant the seedlings approximately 30 to 45 centimetres apart, allowing sufficient room for the plants to develop fully.

The first harvest of Spring Rapini can typically be done around 40 to 60 days after planting when the plant has reached a height of about 20 to 30 centimetres. To ensure a continuous supply, successive plantings every few weeks are recommended. When considering the quantity to plant, it is advisable to aim for around 4 to 6 Spring Rapini plants per square meter. With its tender stems, delicate leaves, and slightly bitter taste, Spring Rapini is a versatile vegetable that can be enjoyed in stir-fries, sautés, soups, and other dishes.