What To Know
- Premier kale, with its deeply curled, dark green leaves and robust flavor, is a popular choice for gardeners seeking a nutritious and delicious addition to their plates.
- It is a biennial plant, meaning it lives for two years, but is typically grown as an annual for its delicious leaves.
- Premier kale can be started from seed directly in the garden or indoors in seed trays.
Premier kale, with its deeply curled, dark green leaves and robust flavor, is a popular choice for gardeners seeking a nutritious and delicious addition to their plates. This variety is known for its cold hardiness and ability to withstand even mild frosts, making it a versatile choice for fall and winter gardens. But how do you cultivate this vibrant green and ensure a bountiful harvest? This blog post will guide you through the process, from seed to table, to help you grow your own premier kale.
Understanding Premier Kale
Premier kale is a type of curly kale, characterized by its deeply ruffled, dark green leaves. It is a biennial plant, meaning it lives for two years, but is typically grown as an annual for its delicious leaves. Premier kale is known for its:
- Flavor: It has a strong, slightly bitter flavor, which many find appealing.
- Nutritional content: It is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants and fiber.
- Cold hardiness: It can withstand light frosts, making it an excellent choice for fall and winter gardens.
- Versatility: It can be used in salads, soups, stews, smoothies, and more.
Choosing the Right Location
Premier kale thrives in full sun to partial shade. A location that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day is ideal. However, in hot climates, some afternoon shade can be beneficial to prevent the leaves from becoming bitter.
Preparing the Soil
Premier kale prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Before planting, amend the soil with compost or aged manure to improve its structure and nutrient content. This will help ensure healthy growth and prevent root rot.
Starting from Seed
Premier kale can be started from seed directly in the garden or indoors in seed trays.
Direct Sowing
- Timing: Sow seeds directly outdoors 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost in your area.
- Depth: Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep and 12 inches apart.
- Spacing: Thin seedlings to 18 inches apart once they have a few true leaves.
Starting Indoors
- Timing: Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost.
- Containers: Use seed trays or individual pots filled with seed starting mix.
- Depth: Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep.
- Light: Provide ample light, using grow lights if necessary.
- Transplanting: Harden off seedlings for a week before transplanting them outdoors once the weather is warm enough.
Planting and Care
Once your seedlings are established, you can transplant them to their permanent location.
Transplanting
- Timing: Transplant seedlings outdoors after the last expected frost.
- Spacing: Space plants 18 inches apart in rows that are 2-3 feet apart.
- Watering: Water deeply after transplanting to help the roots establish.
Ongoing Care
- Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
- Fertilizing: Fertilize every 4-6 weeks with a balanced fertilizer. Organic fertilizers are a good choice.
- Weeding: Keep the area around your kale plants weed-free to prevent competition for nutrients and water.
- Pest Control: Inspect plants regularly for pests. Common kale pests include aphids, cabbage worms, and slugs. Use organic pest control methods like insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary.
Harvesting
Premier kale is ready for harvesting approximately 60-75 days after planting.
Techniques
- Harvesting: Cut the leaves from the outside of the plant, leaving the center leaves intact.
- Timing: Harvest leaves when they are young and tender for the best flavor.
- Storage: Store harvested kale in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Tips for Success
- Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch around your kale plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Succession Planting: Plant kale seeds every 2-3 weeks to ensure a continuous harvest throughout the growing season.
- Winter Protection: In colder climates, protect your kale plants from harsh winter conditions by covering them with row covers or burlap sacks.
Beyond the Harvest: Using Premier Kale
Premier kale is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas:
- Salads: Add chopped kale to salads for a boost of flavor and nutrients.
- Soups and Stews: Use kale in soups and stews for a hearty and nutritious meal.
- Smoothies: Blend kale into smoothies for a healthy and delicious drink.
- Sautéed Kale: Sauté kale with garlic and olive oil for a simple and flavorful side dish.
A Kale-a-bration of Flavor and Health: Your Premier Kale Harvest
Growing your own premier kale is a rewarding experience, offering a delicious and nutritious addition to your diet. With careful planning and consistent care, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of this versatile green.
What People Want to Know
Q: When is the best time to plant premier kale?
A: The best time to plant premier kale is in the early spring or late summer/early fall. This allows the plants to establish themselves before the hot summer months or harsh winter conditions.
Q: How often should I water my premier kale?
A: Water your kale deeply and consistently, especially during dry periods. The soil should be consistently moist, but not soggy. Check the soil moisture with your finger, and water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Q: What are some common pests that affect premier kale?
A: Common pests include aphids, cabbage worms, and slugs. Inspect your plants regularly for signs of infestation. Use organic pest control methods, such as insecticidal soap or neem oil, if necessary.
Q: What can I do if my kale leaves are bitter?
A: Kale leaves can become bitter if they are exposed to too much heat or sunlight. Consider providing your plants with some afternoon shade during hot weather. You can also harvest the leaves when they are young and tender for a milder flavor.
Q: Can I grow premier kale in containers?
A: Yes, you can grow premier kale in containers. Choose a container that is at least 12 inches in diameter and depth. Use a high-quality potting mix and ensure the container has drainage holes.
