How to Grow Kale in 4 Easy Steps

Kale

Are you looking for a plant that does great in the winter?

Kale is easy to grow and since kale does poor in the heat, but flourishes in the winter, October is the perfect time to plant kale. It grows best in zones 8-10. To find out what zone you live in, please see Climate Zones.

Kale is also very healthy for you, providing vitamins A and C, a great source of fiber, and it is high in potassium, iron and calcium.

Location

Before you plant, make sure to choose a location that Kale can get lots of sun. Kale needs about around 6 hours and soil with a pH level of 6.0-7.0. If you do not have a soil with that level, you can apply compost or well rotted manure to enrich your soil.

Planting

According to USA Gardener, kale should be planted 1/4-1/2 inch deep, 1 inch apart in rows that about 18-30 inches apart. Cool air along with the warm soil creates the prefect geminating climate for kale.

Watering

Kale like most plants is a lover of water and requires 1 inch to 1.5 inches of water a week, according to Bonnie Plants.

Harvest

In the fall, wait to harvest kale until it has been lightly frosted. By doing this, the kale you harvest will have sweetness in taste to it. Start harvesting with the older leaves in the oldest section, plucking up the stalk. Kale will keep in the refrigerator for approximately 2 weeks. The best way to store it is in a plastic bag that is unsealed with a damp paper towel.

Kale is great steamed, in salads, casseroles, quesadillas and can be substituted for spinach in omelets. Our family enjoys kale in our scrambled eggs.

How about you? Have you ever grown kale? Do you have any favorite recipes using kale?

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