[simonwatson]

The older leaves on these young calabrese are turning purple. Is this normal or signs of a problem?

Thanks

Simon

[Gandan57]

What variety is it?

[Salmo]

When brassicas turn blue like that they are stressed.

Can be just the effect of planting out. Can be cold. This year it is probable drought. With leaves that colour it is probably short of nitrogen, not that the soil needs extra added, but that it is unavailable to the plant in these dry conditions.

[Elcie]

That is interesting, I didn't know that.  I have had leaves that colour before and just assumed that it was normal.  Thanks for the info!

[gillie]

Are these the summer cropping calabrese?  I have found that these are very prone to boulting if they are stressed when planting out.  They really need growing in modules with some tlc.

[simonwatson]

Drought stress sounds pretty likely to me. I've tried to keep them watered, but with almost zero rain for two months 'tis an endless task.

They are summer cropping. Can't remember the variety at the moment and don't have the packet to hand.

Thanks for the info.