Kale Dwarf Siberian
Kale
Young leaves of Dwarf Siberian cabbage are used for salads, blanching, frying, or as a colorful side dish. Kale is considered a highly nutritious vegetable with powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, it contains sulforaphane which has potent anti-cancer properties. Kale is very rich in beta-carotene, vitamin K, vitamin C, lutein, zeaxanthin and is exceptionally rich in calcium.This cabbage variety is native to Russia and thrives in cold weather. The earliest forms of this plant originated from Asia Minor or the Mediterranean, although it is such an ancient plant that no one can be sure of its origin. The first recorded mention of cabbage in America comes from a publication in 1669.
How to grow Kale from seeds:
- Sowing: Because cabbage grows well in cool weather and is softened by frost, it grows best as a fall crop. For an earlier harvest in areas with cool summers, sow dwarf Siberian cabbage seeds in early spring. Plant three seeds in clusters, 1/2 "deep and 16-18" apart in rows 2-3 feet apart. When the seedlings emerge, cut through the bunches to the most potent plant. Kale need rich, moist, and well-drained soil. For the fall harvest, plant Siberian dwarf cabbage seeds, in the same way, three months before the first expected frost. Plant kale along with Kale or potatoes for companion planting benefits.
- Plant Spacing: 2-3″.
- Growing of Kale: Keep weeds under control and moisture by applying mulch. Does not need watering after the first frost.
- Kаle Soil Requirements for: Keep the soil evenly moist.
- Kale Seeds Days to Germination: 21 days.
- Light Preference of Kale: Full Sun.
- Life Cycle of Kale: Annual.
- How and When to Harvest Kale: The young leaves should be harvested as soon as they are large enough for a salad with scissors or a knife to avoid tearing the stems. If you want to reap the entire plant, cut it an inch above ground level. Dip the stems in water to prolong the freshness of the cut leaves. Expect a good harvest after frost as most cabbage varieties can withstand freezing temperatures.
- Kale Days to Maturity: up to 75 days.
- Kale's Seed Saving: Cabbage tends to cross-pollinate with broccoli, cauliflower, and collard greens, so be sure to isolate them to maintain genetic purity. Kale must overwinter before giving seeds. It tolerates cold well, and a thick layer of mulch should provide sufficient protection even in colder climates. In the spring, allow the plant to bloom and produce seeds. Collect leaves without damaging seed development. The seed pods should turn light brown. Crush the pods, thresh the seeds, and sift through the debris. Store Dwarf Siberian cabbage seeds in a cool, dry place for up to 4 years.
FAST FACTS:
- Common Names: Kale
- Latin Name: Brassica oleracea
- Species Origin: Eastern Mediterranean and Asia Minor
- Type: Open Pollinated, Heirloom, Cool Season
- Life Cycle: Annual
- USDА Zones: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
- Seeds per Ounce: 7,500
- Sunlight: Full Sun
- Height: 14 Inches
- Color: Green
- Uses: Culinary
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