Not to sound alarmist but if more people knew about kale, I don't doubt that this audacious cruciferous vegetable could easily convince gardeners (and raw food foodies!) to put a few of their other garden veggies out to pasture. Growing kale is a smart and affordable way to get this extremely nutritious (and quite pretty) vegetable on your plate.
Growing Kale
Sowing Guide |
|
| When to sow indoors | 6 weeks before last frost |
| When to sow outdoors |
Cool climates: late spring/early summer Warm climates: early spring or late summer/early fall |
| Seed depth | 1/2" |
| Germination soil temperature | 45° – 95°F |
| Germination length | 5-7 days |
| When to transplant | 4-6 weeks |
| Varieties |
Starbor (resists yellowing) Winterbor (winter variety) Red Chidori (purple!) Wild garden mixes (great raw!) |
Growing Guide |
|
| pH range | 6.0 – 7.5 |
| Soil temperature | 60° – 65°F |
| Spacing | 16" |
| Watering | Moderate to heavy, then light after first frost. |
| Light | Full sun |
| Nutrient requirements |
N = moderate P = moderate K = moderate |
| Fertilizer schedule | Every 2 to 3 weeks; use nitrogen fixing cover crops. |
| When to harvest | Preferably after a frost or two |
Looking for more information and inspiration?
Check out these kale growing tips.
