Kale is "king" according to nutritionist and
trendy chefs alike. This frilly cabbage cousin is packed full of nutrients and
antioxidants. Kale is a versatile green and can be used as a spinach substitute
in virtually any recipe.
In the February 2016 issue of Washington Gardener Magazine,our "EdibleHarvest" columnist Elizabeth Olson provides the following advice for growing kale.
In the February 2016 issue of Washington Gardener Magazine,our "EdibleHarvest" columnist Elizabeth Olson provides the following advice for growing kale.
“Growing
requirements for kale are very similar to those of cabbage. Gardeners who want
to grow kale in spring should either purchase transplants in early to
mid-spring or start seeds indoors about four to six weeks before the last
expected frost date.
“Seeds for autumn-harvested kale should be started indoors in mid-summer and the plants should be installed in the garden by mid-September.” You can also direct-sow from seed in late August.
“Kale grows best in full sun. The soil should drain well and be well-worked and amended with compost. Fertilize the plants with an organic vegetable fertilizer. A consistent moisture level in the soil is necessary for the highest-quality leaves. Keep the kitchen garden well-mulched and free of weeds.
“Seeds for autumn-harvested kale should be started indoors in mid-summer and the plants should be installed in the garden by mid-September.” You can also direct-sow from seed in late August.
“Kale grows best in full sun. The soil should drain well and be well-worked and amended with compost. Fertilize the plants with an organic vegetable fertilizer. A consistent moisture level in the soil is necessary for the highest-quality leaves. Keep the kitchen garden well-mulched and free of weeds.
“The plants should be covered with a floating
row cover to protect them from flying insects. It is challenging to extract pests
after they have gotten into the leaves.”
Kale is also quite
ornamental. Try inter-planting edible purple kale in your containers and beds
with cool-season annuals like pansies and snapdragons. Harvest the largest kale
leaves to eat whenever you like. You can also buy kale specifically bred for
its looks, rather than for its taste, to grow for show in your winter garden.
Try growing Kale in your garden today – you can grow that!
The video was produced by Washington
Gardener Magazine and edited by intern Jessica Kranz.➤ If you enjoy this video, please give it a
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