Matures in: 50 days
Introduction:
An heirloom introduced by Siberian traders in the mid-1800s. The hardiest and most tender of the kales. Blue-green frilly oak-shaped leaves are veined in purple-red with red stems. Height: 18 to 36 inches.
SOWING:
Plant seeds outdoors in rich soil as soon as the ground can be worked.
Can be planted as late as August for a winter crop.
Plant in rows 30 inches apart, spacing seeds 6 to 10 inches within rows.
Cover with 1/4 inch of fine soil.
THINNING:
When plants are 4 inches high, thin or transplant to 18 inches apart in the row.
GERMINATION:
Germinates in 7 to 10 days depending on weather and soil conditions.
REMARKS:
Cold weather and frost sweeten the flavor and turn the plant a deeper purple.
Rich in vitamins and calcium.
Can be harvested through the winter with mulch protection.