Kale curly Nero di Toscana (Black Tuscany) BIO

Kale curly Nero di Toscana (Black Tuscany)

Growing Kale curly “Nero di Toscana” (Black Tuscany) is a rewarding process. Here’s a guide to help you cultivate this variety successfully:

1. Planting Time: Kale is a cool-season crop. Plant seeds or seedlings outdoors in early spring or late summer for a fall harvest.

2. Site Selection: Choose a location with full sun to partial shade. Kale prefers cooler temperatures and can tolerate frost.

3. Soil Preparation: Ensure the soil is well-draining and rich in organic matter. Kale prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure to enhance soil fertility.

4. Planting Seeds or Seedlings: Sow Kale “Nero di Toscana” seeds directly into the soil or transplant seedlings. Plant seeds about 1/4 inch deep and space them according to the recommended spacing on the seed packet.

5. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods. Kale requires regular watering, but avoid waterlogging the soil.

6. Thinning: If you started with seeds, thin the seedlings once they are a few inches tall to ensure proper spacing. This allows the plants to develop robustly.

7. Fertilization: Kale is a moderate feeder. Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting time and side-dress with additional fertilizer during the growing season if needed.

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

9. Harvesting: Harvest Kale “Nero di Toscana” by cutting the outer leaves when they reach the desired size. Leave the central leaves to allow for continuous growth. Alternatively, you can cut the entire plant about 2 inches above the soil for a full harvest.

10. Successive Planting: For a prolonged harvest period, consider successive plantings every few weeks.

11. Pest and Disease Control: Keep an eye out for common kale pests such as aphids or cabbage worms. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can be used for organic pest control. Practice good garden hygiene to minimize disease issues.

12. Storage: Use harvested Kale promptly for the best flavor and nutritional value. If you have excess, you can store it in the refrigerator for a short period.

Growing Kale “Nero di Toscana” adds a unique and nutritious green to your garden. Enjoy cultivating this curly and dark variety in your home garden!