Kale is a nutritious and delicious vegetable that is relatively easy to grow in an allotment or garden. It is a member of the brassica family, which includes other vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts. In this blog post, we will cover the types of kale that are best for growing in a garden, how to grow them, as well as the pros and cons of growing kale.
Types of Kale
There are several different types of kale, each with its own unique flavor and texture. Here are some of the most common types of kale that you can grow in your garden:
Curly kale: This is the most common type of kale and is often used in salads and smoothies. It has a curly texture and a slightly bitter taste.
Tuscan kale: Also known as dinosaur kale or lacinato kale, this type of kale has a dark blue-green colour and a smoother texture than curly kale. It has a slightly sweeter taste and is often used in soups and stews.
Red Russian kale: This type of kale has a flat, serrated leaf with a purple stem. It has a mild flavour and is often used in salads and stir-fries.
How to Grow Kale
Kale is a cool-season crop and can be grown in both the spring and fall. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to grow kale in your garden:
Choose a sunny spot in your garden with well-draining soil.
Add compost or aged manure to the soil to improve its nutrient content.
Plant kale seeds or seedlings in the soil, spacing them about 18 inches apart.
Water the kale regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize the kale with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks.
Harvest the kale leaves when they are about 6 to 8 inches long, cutting them off at the base of the stem.
Pros and Cons of Growing Kale
Like any other vegetable, there are pros and cons to growing kale in your garden. Here are some of the main advantages and disadvantages of growing kale:
Pros:
Nutritious: Kale is a superfood that is packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and calcium.
Easy to grow: Kale is relatively easy to grow and is a good crop for beginners.
Versatile: Kale can be used in a variety of dishes, including salads, soups, smoothies, and stir-fries.
Long harvest season: Kale can be harvested throughout the spring and fall, giving you a long harvest season.
Cons:
Pests and diseases: Kale can be susceptible to pests and diseases, such as aphids, cabbage worms, and powdery mildew.
Bitter taste: Some people find the bitter taste of kale unappealing, although this can be mitigated by cooking it or pairing it with other flavours.
Limited storage: Kale does not have a long shelf life and should be eaten or frozen within a few days of harvesting.
In conclusion, growing kale in your garden or allotment can be a great way to add a nutritious and versatile vegetable to your diet. With the right growing conditions and care, kale can provide a long harvest season and a delicious addition to your meals. However, it is important to be aware of the potential pests and diseases that can affect kale and to take steps to mitigate them.