Description
Perennial Leaf Cabbage ‘Vecchio Forte’ – 12 Seedlings
Perennial Leaf Cabbage ‘Vecchio Forte’ (Brassica oleracea), also known as Cavolo Vecchio Forte, is a traditional Sicilian vegetable variety prized for its vigorous growth, hardiness and ability to produce repeated harvests. Unlike ordinary cabbages, this variety does not form a compact head but produces elongated, slightly wavy, grey-green leaves and tender young shoots.
Popular in traditional Mediterranean cooking, its flavourful leaves are perfect for soups, stews, pasta dishes and vegetable recipes. This remarkable variety can remain productive for several years under suitable growing conditions, making it an excellent long-term addition to home vegetable gardens.
🌱 Growing Instructions
☀️ Sunlight: Prefers full sun, with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Established plants tolerate Malta’s sunny conditions well.
💧 Watering: Water regularly during establishment. Mature plants are relatively drought-tolerant but benefit from deep watering during hot, dry periods.
🌱 Soil: Plant in fertile, well-draining soil enriched with compost or organic matter.
🌡️ Temperature: Grows best in mild conditions between 10°C–25°C. Tolerates cooler winter temperatures and summer warmth once established.
📏 Spacing: Allow approximately 60–80 cm between plants for seasonal growing, or up to 100 cm for plants kept over several years.
🌾 Fertilizer: Apply a balanced vegetable fertilizer every 3–4 weeks during active growth, following product instructions. Add compost periodically to maintain soil fertility.
✂️ Harvesting: Harvest mature leaves and tender young shoots as needed, leaving enough foliage for regrowth. The first substantial harvest is typically possible 70–80 days after transplanting. Established plants can provide multiple harvests throughout the year.
🌿 Local Growing Tips (Malta)
Best planting season: September to February, although established plants can remain productive throughout the year.
Position: Sunny vegetable gardens or raised beds with fertile soil and plenty of growing space.
Companion plants: Lettuce, onions, celery and aromatic herbs.
Common issue: Cabbage caterpillars and aphids can damage leaves. Inspect plants regularly and use protective insect netting when necessary.
📦 Product Information
Variety: Vecchio Forte (Perennial Leaf Cabbage)
Botanical Name: Brassica oleracea
Plant Type: Perennial Leafy Vegetable Seedling
Quantity: 12 Seedlings per Tray
First Harvest: Approximately 70–80 days after transplanting
Harvest Season: Mainly Autumn to Spring, with additional harvests possible throughout the year
Special Characteristics: Traditional Sicilian leafy cabbage with excellent regrowth, drought tolerance and the potential to remain productive for several years.
Important Information
Pictures shown may vary from actual product due to the live nature of the items. Some items may be out of stock for various reasons, we will issue a refund or offer alternatives should that be the case.
The price is per one tray of 12 seedlings.
