Seed Count: Approx. 200 seeds

Days to Maturity: 50-60 Days

Description: Red Russian kale is an heirloom variety that comes from the late 19th century, when Russian traders introduced it to Canada. Deep gray-green leaves with purple veins are a colorful addition to both the vegetable garden and the table! Mature leaves are more tender than those of other kale varieties and have a mild sweet flavor. It is very vigorous. Grows 2-3 ft. tall.

Mint2Grow Tip: I've noticed that this variety of kale resists aphids and caterpillars better than any other kale type I've grown. While my other brassicas were being pestered by bugs, this one stayed almost bug free for the entire season. It was also less bitter than other leafy greens that withstood Florida's heat.

How To Grow

Sowing: Since kale thrives in cool weather and sweetens with frost, it grows best as a fall crop. Plant 3 seeds in a cluster, 1/2" deep and 16-18" apart in rows 2-3' apart about 3 months before first expected frost. Thin to the strongest plant when the seedlings emerge. Kale appreciates very rich, moist soil that drains well, since they taste best when allowed to grow quickly.

Growing: Keep weeds controlled and conserve moisture by applying mulch. Keep the soil evenly moist, but stop watering after the first frost. Kale is very easy to grow, but can be bothered by cabbage aphids.

Harvesting: Harvest baby leaves as soon as they grow big enough for salad; harvest bigger leaves as needed. Use a scissors or a knife to cut the leaves, to avoid tearing the stems. To harvest the entire plant, cut it off an inch above ground level. To make the fresh leaves last longer in the fridge, dip the stems in water after cutting them; they should stay fresh for up to a month. Kale also freezes well. Expect to harvest well after frost, since most varieties of kale can survive freezing temperatures. Kale must overwinter before producing seeds; since it survives cold well, a thick layer of mulch should protect it sufficiently, even in colder climates. In the spring, allow it to flower and go to seed. Some of the leaves can still be harvested for eating without damaging the seed development. The tall stalk will develop pods that ripen from the bottom up; wait until the pods turn light brown before harvesting them.

Red Russian Kale