Kale
Lacianto Kale
Some of the best tasting kale there is! Also known as dinosaur or Tuscan kale. You can expect plenty of production from these gorgeous dark green plants.
Sowing Directly in the Garden:
- Sow in full sun in early spring and in midsummer for fall crop.
- In the Deep South, gulf, and pacific coast areas, sow from fall to early spring.
- Plant seeds evenly and thinly and cover with ¼ inch of soil.
- Firm lightly and water gently.
- Seedlings emerge in 10-21 days.
Planting from Transplants in Fall:
- Kale prefers rich, well-drained soil, and can tolerate some shade. Avoid areas where any member of the cabbage family grew the year before.
- Prepare the bed by turning the soil under to a depth of 8 inches. Level with a rake to remove clumps of grass and stones.
- Dig a hole for each plant large enough to amply accommodate the root ball. Space plants 1 – 1½ feet apart in rows 2 feet apart.
- Carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently loosen the root ball with your hands to encourage good root development.
- Place the top of the root ball even with the level of the surrounding soil. Fill with soil to the top of the root ball. Press soil down firmly with your hand.
- Thoroughly water and apply a light mulch layer on top of the soil (1-2 inches) to conserve water and reduce weeds.
Harvest:
- Harvest kale after first frost if you prefer a sweeter flavor.
- Pick the outer leaves as needed once they reach 6-8 inches long about 55-60 days after transplanting.
- Leave the central bud since it will grow new leaves.
- Store kale in an airtight bag in the refrigerator for 5-7 days. Wash when ready to use.
- Use kale as a substitute for lettuce, cooked cabbage and collards.