Curly Kale Late Autumn (Westlandse Herfst late)

Curly Kale Late Autumn (Westlandse Herfst late)

Growing Curly Kale Late Autumn, such as “Westlandse Herfst Late,” involves specific steps for a successful harvest. Here’s a guide:

1. Planting Time: Late Autumn kale is typically planted in late summer for a fall harvest. Aim to plant seeds or seedlings about 8-10 weeks before the first expected frost in your area.

2. Site Selection: Choose a location with full sun to partial shade. Kale can tolerate some shade, especially in warmer climates.

3. Soil Preparation: Kale prefers well-draining, fertile soil. Work in organic matter like compost to enhance soil structure and nutrient content.

4. Planting Seeds or Seedlings: Plant kale seeds about 1/2 inch deep or transplant seedlings into the garden. Space plants about 12-18 inches apart in rows with 18-24 inches between rows.

5. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells. Adequate watering is crucial for tender and flavorful kale leaves.

6. Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the plants to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

7. Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting. Side-dress with additional fertilizer during the growing season if needed.

8. Thinning: If you started with seeds, thin the seedlings once they are a few inches tall to ensure proper spacing.

9. Harvesting: Harvest late autumn kale leaves when they are young and tender. Begin by picking the outer leaves, allowing the inner leaves to continue growing. This encourages a continuous harvest.

10. Cold Tolerance: Kale is cold-hardy and can withstand light frost. In fact, cooler temperatures often enhance the flavor of kale.

11. Pest and Disease Control: Keep an eye out for pests like aphids or cabbage worms. Use insecticidal soap or other organic methods as needed. Practice good garden hygiene to minimize disease issues.

12. Successive Planting: For a continuous harvest, consider successive plantings every few weeks.

Late Autumn kale is known for its cold resistance, making it an excellent choice for fall and winter harvests. Enjoy growing this nutritious and flavorful green in your garden!