What To Know
- Perennial kale can be started from seed either directly in the garden or indoors for a head start.
- In colder climates, protect your kale plants from harsh winter conditions by covering them with a layer of mulch or burlap.
- Store harvested kale leaves in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze them for longer storage.
Imagine a garden where vibrant, nutritious kale graces your table year after year, even in the harshest winters. That dream is achievable with perennial kale varieties, offering a sustainable and flavorful alternative to their annual counterparts. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to grow perennial kale, from selecting the right variety to harvesting its bounty.
Choosing Your Perennial Kale Variety
The first step in your perennial kale journey is selecting the right variety. Here are a few popular options:
- “Winterbor” Kale: Known for its cold hardiness and ability to withstand harsh winters, “Winterbor” produces beautiful, frilly leaves with a mild flavor.
- “Red Russian” Kale: This variety boasts striking red-purple leaves with a slightly bitter taste, perfect for adding a pop of color and complexity to your dishes.
- “Siberian Kale”: As the name suggests, “Siberian Kale” is exceptionally cold-hardy, thriving in frigid temperatures and producing sturdy, flavorful leaves.
- “Lacinato Kale” (Dinosaur Kale): While not technically perennial, “Lacinato Kale” can survive for several years in mild climates, offering a delicious and visually appealing addition to your garden.
Sowing Your Perennial Kale Seeds
Perennial kale can be started from seed either directly in the garden or indoors for a head start.
Direct Sowing:
- Timing: Direct sow perennial kale seeds in the spring after the last frost has passed.
- Location: Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
- Depth: Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep and space them 12-18 inches apart.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist until germination.
Starting Indoors:
- Timing: Begin sowing seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date.
- Containers: Use seed trays or small pots filled with seed-starting mix.
- Depth: Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep.
- Light: Provide adequate light, either with grow lights or a sunny windowsill.
- Hardening Off: Once seedlings have developed true leaves, gradually acclimate them to outdoor conditions for a week before transplanting.
Transplanting Your Perennial Kale
- Timing: Transplant your seedlings into the garden when the soil has warmed and the threat of frost has passed.
- Spacing: Space plants 18-24 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation and growth.
- Watering: Water thoroughly after planting and continue to water regularly, especially during dry periods.
- Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Caring for Your Perennial Kale
- Watering: Perennial kale thrives in consistently moist soil, so water regularly, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilizing: Feed your kale with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks, especially during the growing season.
- Weeding: Keep the area around your kale plants free of weeds to prevent competition for nutrients and water.
- Pest Control: Inspect your plants regularly for pests like aphids or cabbage worms. Use organic methods like insecticidal soap or neem oil to control these pests.
- Winter Protection: In colder climates, protect your kale plants from harsh winter conditions by covering them with a layer of mulch or burlap.
Harvesting Your Perennial Kale
- Timing: Harvest your kale leaves throughout the growing season. You can start harvesting when the leaves are about 6 inches long.
- Method: Cut outer leaves, leaving the inner leaves to continue growing.
- Storage: Store harvested kale leaves in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze them for longer storage.
The Perennial Kale Advantage: Year-Round Flavor and Sustainability
Growing perennial kale offers several benefits over its annual counterparts:
- Year-Round Harvest: Enjoy fresh, flavorful kale throughout the year, even in the winter months.
- Reduced Workload: Once established, perennial kale requires less maintenance than annual varieties, saving you time and effort.
- Sustainability: By growing perennial kale, you reduce your environmental impact by decreasing the need for frequent planting and seed purchases.
Beyond the Harvest: Culinary Delights with Perennial Kale
Perennial kale is incredibly versatile in the kitchen. Here are a few ideas to inspire your culinary creativity:
- Salads: Add chopped kale to salads for a boost of nutrients and a slightly bitter flavor.
- Soups and Stews: Kale is a perfect addition to hearty soups and stews, adding a vibrant green color and earthy flavor.
- Smoothies: Blend kale into your favorite smoothies for a healthy and delicious way to increase your daily intake of vitamins and minerals.
- Sautéed Dishes: Sauté kale with garlic and olive oil for a simple and flavorful side dish.
- Chips: Roast kale in the oven with olive oil and spices for a healthy and satisfying snack.
Your Perennial Kale Journey Begins Now
Growing perennial kale is a rewarding experience, offering a sustainable and flavorful addition to your garden and kitchen. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy the benefits of this hardy and versatile vegetable year after year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best time to plant perennial kale?
A: The best time to plant perennial kale is in the spring, after the last frost has passed. You can also start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date and transplant them outdoors once the weather has warmed.
Q: How often should I water my perennial kale?
A: Perennial kale needs consistently moist soil, so water regularly, especially during dry periods. Check the soil moisture by sticking your finger an inch or two into the ground. If it feels dry, it’s time to water.
Q: How do I protect my perennial kale from winter?
A: In colder climates, protect your perennial kale plants from harsh winter conditions by covering them with a layer of mulch or burlap. This will help insulate the plants and prevent them from freezing.
Q: Can I grow perennial kale in containers?
A: Yes, you can grow perennial kale in containers. Choose a container that is at least 12 inches in diameter and has drainage holes. Fill it with a well-draining potting mix and water regularly.
Q: What are some tips for harvesting perennial kale?
A: When harvesting perennial kale, cut the outer leaves, leaving the inner leaves to continue growing. This will ensure a continuous harvest throughout the season. You can also harvest the entire plant in the fall and store the leaves in the freezer for later use.
