[sueanthony]

I have some sprouting broccoli and kale to plant out.  I am trying to think about the best and easiest way to protect them.  do they get very tall?  I have some netting to use but wasn't sure how high to make the framework.  I am also aware they get quite big so need lots of room.  Do they also like a bit of shade?

[Dave Mack]

I've just took the main heads off my broccoli ... they are about 18" high .

[viettaclark]

My purple sprouting got to about 4/5' last year! And Black Tuscan kale is equally tall....
I'm still waiting for my onions/garlic/shallots to ripen so I can plant out mine (and the kale and cabbages) and they're a good 8" high. Hope they don't mind waiting!!!
It's the watering that's doing me in.....!!

[sueanthony]

My purple sprouting got to about 4/5' last year! And Black Tuscan kale is equally tall....
I'm still waiting for my onions/garlic/shallots to ripen so I can plant out mine (and the kale and cabbages) and they're a good 8" high. Hope they don't mind waiting!!!
It's the watering that's doing me in.....!!

I know what you mean, mine are about the same height but keep giving them lots of water and they seem ok.  I need to get sorted and get them into the ground really, too many plants thats the problem.  I got cabbages and caulis too, crikey dont know where it is going to go, oh well sure I'll think of something.  Thank you for your message X

[viettaclark]

By the way, Sue, brassicas really don't mind some shade......mine are going in a bed under big trees and only get a bit of morning/evening sun and dappled shade all day.

[sueanthony]

By the way, Sue, brassicas really don't mind some shade......mine are going in a bed under big trees and only get a bit of morning/evening sun and dappled shade all day.

Thanks for that, it will be useful to know especially if it continues to be so hot and dry.  A little shade might be good for them too.