Kale takes 7-10 days to germinate and is ready to pick approximately 60 days after planting the seeds.
Growing kale in growbags can be a convenient and space-efficient way to cultivate this nutritious leafy green. Here are some steps to help you successfully grow kale in growbags:
Selecting Growbags:
Choose growbags that are large enough to accommodate the root system of kale. Typically, a growbag with a capacity of at least 5 gallons is suitable.
Choosing Kale Varieties:
There are various varieties of kale available, such as curly kale, lacinato (also known as dinosaur or Tuscan kale), and red Russian kale. Choose a variety that suits your preference.
Soil Mix:
Use a high-quality potting mix or create a mix by combining equal parts of peat moss, perlite or vermiculite, and compost. Ensure good drainage, as kale prefers well-draining soil.
Planting:
Plant kale seeds or seedlings in the growbags. If starting from seeds, sow them about 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep. For seedlings, transplant them into the growbags, leaving adequate space between each plant (usually about 12-18 inches).
Watering:
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Kale prefers even moisture, so water whenever the top inch of soil feels dry. Ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogged conditions.
Sunlight:
Kale thrives in full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade. Ensure your growbags receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth.
Fertilization:
Fertilize kale with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer every 4-6 weeks or according to the instructions on the fertilizer packaging. Additionally, you can use organic matter, such as well-rotted compost, to enrich the soil.
Pruning and Harvesting:
Trim outer leaves as needed, allowing the inner leaves to continue growing. Harvesting young leaves promotes continuous growth. Ensure you use clean, sharp scissors or gardening shears.
Pest and Disease Control:
Keep an eye out for pests such as aphids and caterpillars. Handpick them or use insecticidal soap if necessary. Monitor for diseases, and promptly remove any infected leaves.
Support:
If you're growing a tall variety of kale or if your plants are exposed to strong winds, consider providing support with stakes to prevent bending or breaking.
Rotate Growbags:
If you are growing kale in the same growbags year after year, consider rotating their positions to prevent soil-borne diseases and pests.
By following these steps, you should be able to successfully grow kale in growbags. Adjust the care based on the specific needs of the kale variety you choose and the local growing conditions in your area.
Companion Plants:
Companion planting involves strategically planting different crops together to enhance each other's growth, repel pests, or provide other benefits. When it comes to kale, there are several companion plants that can support its growth and help deter pests. Here are some companion plants for kale:
Aromatic Herbs:
Rosemary: Rosemary can help repel cabbage moths and other pests that might affect kale.
Thyme: Thyme is another aromatic herb that can deter pests and provide ground cover.
Alliums:
Onions: Onions, garlic, and other members of the allium family can help repel aphids and other pests that might target kale.
Brassicas:
Nasturtiums: Nasturtiums can act as a trap crop, attracting aphids away from kale. They are also believed to deter cabbage moths.
Cabbage Family (except other kale varieties): Planting other members of the cabbage family, such as broccoli or cabbage, can help confuse and deter pests specific to brassicas.
Legumes:
Beans and Peas: Legumes like beans and peas can fix nitrogen in the soil, benefiting kale by providing a nutrient boost.
Marigolds:
Marigolds: Marigolds are known for their ability to repel nematodes and some other pests. Plant them around the perimeter of your kale bed.
Dill:
Dill: Dill attracts beneficial insects like ladybugs and parasitic wasps, which can help control aphids and other pests.
Calendula:
Calendula: Calendula (marigold family) can deter nematodes and attract beneficial insects.
Mint:
Mint: While mint can be invasive, planting it in containers or at a distance can help repel pests.
Chamomile:
Chamomile: Chamomile may enhance the flavor of kale and attract beneficial insects.
Kale does not grow well with broccoli, cauliflower, brussels sprouts and swiss chard.
How do I fertilize my Kale?
Fertilize with fish and seaweed and kelp extract to encourage more growth. Mulch around kale plants with a heavy layer of garden compost. This keeps the soil cool, prevents moisture loss, and provides readily available nutrients to the shallow feeder roots.
What bugs attack Kale and what gets rid of them?
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Even though aphids are considered minor pests of celery, they can be virus vectors. The soft-bodied adults put their needle-like mouths into plant tissue and suck the plant’s juices. While they are taking nutrients from the plant, these pests also insert toxins that affect the plant’s growth.
Aphids can be controlled with an insecticidal soap. Always spray plants in the early evening to reduce the chance of damage. Pay special attention to the lower leaf because that is where they usually are located.
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Cabbage worms begin appearing in late spring, after you see white butterflies flitting about in your garden. In addition to mating, they are laying eggs on every kale, cabbage, and broccoli plant they can find.
Many of the cabbage worms’ natural enemies, especially wasps, are not yet present in large numbers in spring, so you must protect your plants by hand-picking your cabbage worms, using row cover barriers to prevent egg laying, or using an organic pesticide that uses Bacillus thuringiensis or spinosad as its active ingredient.
What soil pH is best for Kale?
A neutral soil pH of 6.0 to 7.5 is ideal.
How do you store Kale?
You can store a fresh bunch or bunches of kale in the refrigerator drawer. Before storing, wipe away excess moisture, wrap the kale leaves in a paper towel, and place them in a plastic bag. Kale bunches will last a week in the fridge.
to freeze you will need to blanch kale before freezing. Prep the kale as though you were about to make a recipe—strip it from the veins and chop or tear the leaves to the necessary size. Then, place them in a large pot of boiling water for a minute or two. Remove them quickly from the hot water, and then plunge them into a large bowl of ice water. Thoroughly dry the kale in a salad spinner or with paper towels. Spread the leaves in a single layer on a baking sheet, and place in the freezer for a couple of hours. Once frozen, pack them in a freezer bag or airtight container and store them in the freezer for up to eight months.
Another way to preserve your kale is to dry it. This method won’t prolong the life of your kale as a fresh, green veggie, but you can use this crispy kale as an ingredient in recipes or as a tasty snack on its own. You can dry kale in the oven for several hours or use a more efficient dehydrator. Once dried, you can add salt, pepper, and other spices to your kale; eat them on their own as kale chips, or add as a crunchy salad ingredient.
Interesting facts:
Kale was popular in Europe during Roman times and the Middle Ages, it arrived in the U.S. in the 17th century.
One cup of chopped raw kale provides more than 100% of the recommended daily amount of vitamins A and K.
Types of kale are marked by color (green, white, purple, or bluish green) and leaf shape.
Kale is a sustainable crop that generally requires less water than some other leafy greens, making it an environmentally friendly choice.
Some regions host kale festivals to celebrate this leafy green. These events often feature cooking demonstrations, tastings, and creative uses of kale in various dishes.
Regular consumption of kale is associated with various health benefits, including improved heart health, reduced inflammation, and support for the body's detoxification processes.
Kale chips have become a popular healthy snack. These are made by baking kale leaves with olive oil and seasonings until they become crispy.
Medicinal uses for Kale:
Kale, like many dark, leafy greens, is renowned for its nutritional content and potential health benefits. While it may not be considered a traditional medicinal herb, its rich array of vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients contribute to its overall health-promoting properties. Here are some potential medicinal uses for kale:
Nutrient-Rich Support:
Kale is a powerhouse of nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron, calcium, and potassium. Consuming kale regularly can contribute to overall health and well-being.
Antioxidant Properties:
Kale contains antioxidants such as beta-carotene, quercetin, and kaempferol. Antioxidants help combat oxidative stress in the body, which is linked to chronic diseases and aging.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects:
The compounds found in kale, including vitamins and phytonutrients, may have anti-inflammatory effects, potentially reducing inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation is associated with various health issues.
Heart Health:
Kale's high fiber content, along with its potassium and phytonutrient content, may contribute to heart health. The fiber helps lower cholesterol levels, while potassium supports blood pressure regulation.
Bone Health:
Kale is an excellent source of vitamin K, which is essential for bone health. Vitamin K is involved in bone mineralization and may help reduce the risk of fractures.
Detoxification Support:
The sulfur-containing compounds in kale, such as glucosinolates, may aid in the body's detoxification processes. These compounds are thought to support the liver in neutralizing and excreting toxins.
Weight Management:
Kale is low in calories and high in fiber, which can contribute to a feeling of fullness. Including kale in a balanced diet may support weight management.
Eye Health:
The presence of lutein and zeaxanthin in kale may contribute to eye health. These antioxidants are associated with a reduced risk of age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.
Blood Sugar Regulation:
The fiber and antioxidants in kale may contribute to better blood sugar control. Including kale in a balanced diet can be beneficial for individuals managing diabetes or at risk of developing diabetes.
Cancer Prevention:
Some studies suggest that the compounds found in kale, such as sulforaphane, may have potential anti-cancer properties. These compounds may help protect cells from damage and inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
Immune System Support:
The vitamin C content in kale is beneficial for the immune system. Vitamin C is essential for the production of white blood cells and the overall function of the immune system.
While kale is a nutritious addition to a balanced diet, it's important to note that individual responses to foods can vary.