Kale

Kale prefers fertile, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil around pH 6.0-7.5. Mix in compost and side-dress with nitrogen after repeated harvests if growth slows; cool weather brings the best leaf quality.

Sun

Full sun to part shade

Water

1 in/week

Spacing

18 in

First harvest

50–65 days

Tips

• Sow 1/4-1/2 inch deep and thin or transplant to 12-18 inches apart.
• Supply about 1 inch of water weekly and mulch to keep roots cool.
• Cover with insect mesh at planting to exclude cabbage butterflies and check for aphids under curled leaves.
• Remove damaged lower leaves while preserving the central growing point.
• Harvest the lowest healthy leaves while young and tender, leaving several upper leaves to fuel regrowth.

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