How Do You Plant Kale?
Updated on
November 29, 2023
Growing Kale
It’s time to eat your greens and Kale is one of the best there is! It’s not only nutritious but it is also packed with loads of powerful vitamins and antioxidants! There are some tips and tricks to planting Kale, so let’s get started with planting this in the garden!
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Cheatsheet: Growing Kale
Planting Basics
🧬 Cold-hardy crop with high tolerance for frost
💧 Plant in well-drained soil with pH between 6.0 and 7.0
☀️ Requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day
🌱 Sow seeds directly or transplant young seedlings
🌡️ Optimal soil temperature: 60-70°F (15-21°C)
Garden Care
🌱 Space plants 12-18 inches apart in rows 18-24 inches apart
🚿 Regular watering; keep soil consistently moist
🧹 Control weeds to minimize competition
🐛 Watch out for pests like cabbage worms and aphids
🪓 Harvest outer leaves first for continuous production
Nutrition & Health Benefits
🌿 Loaded with antioxidants, vitamins A, C, and K
💪 Boosts immune system and promotes bone health
⚖️ Low in calories, high in fiber for weight management
❤️ Reduces risk of heart disease and cancer
🌍 Sustainable, self-sufficient food source
Fun Facts
🌱 Fast grower – reaches maturity in 55-75 days
🌧️ Thrives in cool seasons; flavor improves after frost
🌿 Ancient crop with roots dating back 2,000 years
🌿 Kale popularity surged by 400% in the past decade
🧪 Over 50 different varieties to explore and enjoy!
Intro To Growing Kale
OK, gardening time. Growing kale is a lot of fun. plus, they are tasty and healthy!
Soil
use fertile, well-drained soil with plenty of well rotted compost dug in. kale ideally wants sandy loam to grow in. sandy loam simply means soil consisting of less than 7 percent clay, less than 50 percent silt, and between 43 and 50 percent sand. fill small pots with multipurpose soil and make half an inch deep holes. sow the seeds thinly in these holes and firm the soil around them.
Seeds
you are obviously also going to need seeds!
Sun-Requirements
this plant needs partial sun.
Sowing
kale is usually sown into a seedbed, away from the main vegetable plot, then later transplanted to its final growing position. this is because it is slow to grow and would take up a lot of space during the prime growing season on the veg plot if sown straight into its growing site. sow kale seeds from late winter to early summer in sun or light shade. if sowing more than one row, space them 15cm (6in) apart.
Depth
kale should be sown at a depth of 0.38 inches (1 cm).
Germination
Frequently Asked Questions about Growing Kale
1. When is the best time to plant kale?
The best time to plant kale is in the early spring or late summer.
2. How do I prepare the soil for planting kale?
Prepare the soil by ensuring it is well-drained, fertile, and rich in organic matter.
3. What is the recommended spacing for kale plants?
Space kale plants approximately 12-18 inches apart to allow proper growth.
4. How much sunlight does kale require?
Kale thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
5. How often should I water my kale plants?
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged by watering kale plants regularly.
6. Should I fertilize my kale plants?
Yes, provide kale plants with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks.
7. How long does it take for kale to mature?
Kale typically takes 50-65 days to reach maturity, which can vary based on the specific variety.
8. Can I harvest kale leaves more than once?
Absolutely! You can harvest kale leaves multiple times as long as you don't remove all the leaves from a single plant.
9. How do I harvest kale leaves?
Cut off the outer leaves first, starting from the bottom, leaving the inner leaves to continue growing.
10. How do I store harvested kale?
Store harvested kale in a plastic bag in the refrigerator to keep it fresh for up to a week.
In conclusion, planting kale can be a rewarding and nutritious addition to your garden. Remember to choose a suitable location with well-drained soil, and ensure that your kale receives adequate sunlight for optimal growth. Preparing the soil by incorporating organic matter and providing proper watering will create an environment where kale can thrive. Planting kale in rows with sufficient spacing between each plant will allow for adequate air circulation, reducing the risk of disease. Mulching around the plants will aid in moisture retention and weed suppression. Regularly inspect your kale plants for any signs of pests or diseases, and promptly address any issues to prevent further damage. Harvesting kale leaves when they are young and tender will result in a more flavorful and tender crop. By following these guidelines and tending to your kale with care and diligence, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest throughout the growing season. Remember, gardening is a journey of learning and patience, so embrace the process and savor the joy of nurturing your own kale from seed to plate. Happy gardening!
