Kale is a hardy and nutritious green that makes a fantastic addition to any vegetable garden. Its ability to thrive in cooler temperatures and to look after itself, make it an excellent choice for both novice and seasoned gardeners. Kale is part of the Brassica family and related to cabbage and broccoli. Known for its tough, leafy green leaves, kale comes in a wide range of varieties and is delicious steamed or fried.
How to Grow Kale: Sowing and Planting Out
Kale seeds can be started indoors or sown directly in the garden. For indoor sowing, start 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost. Transplant the seedlings outside when they’re about 4 inches tall and after the danger of frost has passed. Plant the seedlings roughly 12-18 inches apart.
For direct sowing, plant seeds 1/2 inch deep and 1 inch apart. Thin the seedlings once they are 4 inches tall.
Maintaining Your Kale
Keep the plants well watered, especially during hot dry spells. Mulching around plants helps retain moisture and keeps weeds at bay. Kale benefits from regular feeding every 4-6 weeks with a balanced liquid feed.
Kale is relatively pest free, although birds, especially pigeons, can sometimes be a problem. Cover the plants with a net to protect them.
Harvesting
Harvest kale leaves when they are large enough to eat. Start with the outer leaves, letting the inner ones keep growing. This “cut-and-come-again” method gives a steady supply of fresh leaves over a long period.
For the best flavor, pick kale after a light frost, which can make it sweeter. Young leaves are the most tender, but mature leaves can also be harvested and cooked.
Varieties of Kale to Grow
Choose the right kale variety to suit your taste:
- Nero Di Toscana: Often referred to as Black Russian kale, Nero Di Toscana is an Italian curly kale with dark green leaves.
- Red Russian Kale: A beautiful purplish kale whose colors become more vibrant after a frost, this sweet-tasting kale will produce all winter long in most areas of the UK.
- Dwarf Green Kale: A dwarf version of one of Britain’s most reliable winter vegetables, this sturdy little plant grows well in just about any garden.