How Do You Grow Autumn Star Kalettes?

Growing Autumn Star Kalettes

Choosing the Right Location

Kalettes thrive in full sun, so pick a spot in your garden that gets at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.

I found that planting them in a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade can also work well, especially in hotter climates.

Soil and Preparation

Rich, well-draining soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.0 is ideal for growing Autumn Star Kalettes.

Before planting, amend your soil with compost or well-rotted manure to boost fertility. I always double-dig the planting bed to ensure the roots have room to spread.

Planting

Sow seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost, then transplant seedlings to the garden when they are 4-6 inches tall.

Plant them 18 inches apart in rows spaced 24 inches apart. Crowding them too close can lead to poor air circulation, fostering disease. Trust me, I learned that the hard way!

Watering

Kalettes need consistent moisture, but hate soggy soil. Aim for about 1 inch of water per week.

I use a soaker hose to deliver water slowly and directly to the roots, which helps prevent fungal issues.

Feeding

Feed your kalettes with a balanced fertilizer every 3-4 weeks during the growing season.

I prefer organic options like fish emulsion or compost tea, which seem to give the best results.

Pest and Disease Management

Keep an eye out for common pests like aphids, cabbage worms, and flea beetles.

Hand-pick pests or use organic sprays like neem oil. Rotating crops each year can help reduce disease risk.

Harvesting

Patience is key! Kalettes are ready to harvest about 110-120 days after transplanting.

Start picking the small, purple-veined florets from the bottom of the plant upwards to encourage continuous growth.

Did you know that kalettes can withstand light frosts, enhancing their flavor? I always find they taste sweeter after a nip of frost!

Storage

Freshly harvested kalettes can be stored in the fridge for up to a week.

For longer storage, blanch and freeze them. I love having a stash to toss into winter soups and stews!

Tips and Tricks

• Mulch around your plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. I use straw mulch, which works wonders.
• Prune any yellowing leaves to boost air circulation and plant health.
• Companion planting with herbs like dill or flowers like marigolds can help deter pests naturally.

Growing Autumn Star Kalettes can be a rewarding experience. With a bit of attention and care, you’ll have a bountiful harvest of these delicious and unique vegetables.

Growing Autumn Star Kalettes is a great way to both enjoy the beautiful colors of the season and try something new in the garden. This new hybrid brassica is sure to satisfy seasoned gardeners and beginners alike with its colorful and flavorful variety of greens and sprouts. If you're looking for something exciting to add to your garden this autumn, then why not try giving Autumn Star Kalettes a go?