It’s hot this month, deep watering is recommended, and it’s a good idea to protect the plants that struggle in the heat such as lettuces.
However, this is a great month to sow and plant for winter harvesting, as mentioned on Season 2 Episode 16 we have a list of some of Ali’s favourite brassicas to sow this month.
Broccoli
Sprouting Winter Rudolph, Winter Green, Organic Belstar, Di Cicco and one I haven’t tired Organic Raab Spring Rapini – sounds delicious.
Cabbage
Chinese Mini Gold, Chinese Wa Wa Tsai, Conehead, Copenhagen Market, Korean Kimchi Red, Mini Red,
Space Saver, Verona Purple Savoy, Vertus Svaoy
Cauliflower
All Year Round, Giant of Naples, Green Macerata, Sprouting Fioretto, Violet Sicilian, and for the smaller garden, try the Cauliflower Early White – a quick maturing and compact variety.
Collard Greens – cold hardy leafy brassicas
Kale
Blue Ridge, Cavolo Nero, Noble Red Russian – that’s the one with pretty, wavy-leaves that are blue-green in warmer weather but, as the temperature drops the stems and leafy veins turn a gorgeous red hue. Scarlet kale and Kale Squire
Kohlrabi
Early Purple Vienna, Grand Duke, Azure Star
Brussels Sprouts
Organic Igor, Jade F1, Lond Island
Peas
Alderman Tall Climbing, Mucio, Greenfest,
Taking 60 – 80 days to reach maturity you should be harvesting by Late March
Snow Peas and Sugar Snaps can also be sown Feb – April in most regions.
General Growing Tips for Brassicas in February:
Soil Preparation: Brassicas need rich, well-drained soil, so work in compost or well-rotted manure before planting to ensure good growth.
Spacing: Brassicas need plenty of room to develop, so be sure to space them adequately (usually 30-45cm apart).
Frost Protection: While these varieties are cold-hardy, young plants may need some protection during the colder months, especially if frost is heavy. Using row covers or cloches in early winter can help.
Watering: Brassicas need consistent moisture, so water regularly, especially as they establish roots. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely.
These Brassica varieties will give you a great range of options to sow in February for a successful winter harvest in New Zealand. They’re all hardy, resilient, and able to take the cooler temperatures as autumn and winter arrive.
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