Overview
Kale , a leafy green vegetable , is a popular option for home plate gardeners due to its hardiness , nutritional value , and ease of cultivation . Planting kale out of doors is a rewarding experience that yields a bountiful harvest of this superfood . Thiscomprehensive guidewill ply you with all theessential stepsand tips you need to successfully plant scratch outdoors .
When to Plant Kale Outdoors
Theideal timeto industrial plant borecole outdoors alter bet on your climate . In universal , kale can be planted in the leaping or decline . For spring planting , purport to inseminate seeds 6 - 8 workweek before the last rime engagement . Forfall planting , start seed 8 - 10 weeks before the first frost particular date .
Choosing a Planting Site
Kale favor well - drained soilthat is rich inorganic matter . Choose a site that meet full sunshine topartial shade . If your grunge is not well - drain , consider raised beds or containers .
Preparing the Soil
Beforeplanting kale , train the soil by tilling it to a depth of 12 - 18 inch . Amend the soil with compost or manure toimprove drainageand fertility . ThepH levelof the soil should be between 6.0 and 7.0 .
Sowing Seeds
Sow kale seeds 1/4 inch deep and 12 - 18 inch apart in rows . Water the seed well after planting . Keep the grunge moist until theseeds spud , whichtypically takes7 - 10 day .
Thinning Seedlings
Once theseedlings come forth , lose weight them to 6 - 12 inches apart . This allows the plant togrow strongand good for you .
Watering
H2O kale plants on a regular basis , peculiarly during red-hot , dry weather condition . Water deep and allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering .
Fertilizing
Fertilize kale plants every 3 - 4 weeks with abalanced fertiliser . deflect over - fertilizing , as this can lead to inordinate leafage ontogeny at the expense of head formation .
Mulching
Mulching aroundkale plants helpsto retain moisture , suppress sens , and regulate soil temperature . Useorganic materialssuch as chaff , shredded foliage , or compost .
Pest and Disease Control
Kale is susceptible to a variety of pest and diseases , including aphid , cabbage inchworm , anddowny mildew . Practice steady pest and disease monitoring , and take appropriatecontrol measureswhen necessary .
Harvesting
Kale is quick to harvest when the leaves aredark greenand tender . You canharvest individual leavesor cut theentire headland . Kale can be lay in in the icebox for up to a week .
Companion Planting
familiar planting can aid to heighten the outgrowth andpest resistanceof lucre . Good companion plant for kale let in tomato plant , peppercorn , onion , and carrots .
Troubleshooting
Problem : Kale leavesare yellow . resolution : insure thesoil pH leveland make certain it is between 6.0 and 7.0 . Apply a balanced fertilizer . Problem : Kale plantsare bolting ( going to seed).Solution : Kale bolts when exposed tohigh temperaturesorlong days . bring home the bacon shadiness for the plants or harvest them before they bolt .
FAQ
Q : How often should I irrigate colewort plants?A : Water kale plants regularly , peculiarly during hot , dry weather . Water deep and allow the soil to dry out slightly between lachrymation . Q : Can Iplant kalein the shade?A : Kale favor full suntopartial subtlety . However , in hot clime , afternoon shadecan be beneficial . Q : What is the best way to store kale?A : Kale can be stored in the icebox for up to a week . Wrap the leave in adamp paper toweland place them in a plastic bag .
