Kale is a leafy green vegetable that pops up on many lists of trendy superfoods. Kale is highly nutritious, containing high levels of vitamins, minerals, Kale is easy to grow, thriving in small gardens or containers.
Planting Calendar
Kale does best when the weather is cooler, but can be grown throughout the year.
Harvest In
60 Days
Pick leaves from the lower part of the plant first. Usually at around 60 days from planting. Store in a airtight container in the vegetable crisper in the fridge.
Prepare
Position
During the hotter months of the year Kale likes to be protected from the hot midday sun. In the cooler months plant in full sun.
Soil
When planted into the ground Kale likes a free draining soil that is rich in organic matter. To improve the organic content in your soil, break up the soil and add Kings Compost, Kings Sheep Pellets, and Grosafe Ocean Fert then mix together well.
Plant
Kale can be sown directly into the garden, raised beds or containers that are at least 30cm deep. Or sown into a seed tray with Organic Seed raising mix and transplanted out once they have formed their second set of leaves. Gently remove the seedling from the tray and plant into the vegetable garden. Space plants 50cm apart and in rows 50cm apart so they have plenty of space to grow. Take care when transplanting so that the young soft roots are not damaged. Gently firm the soil down after planting and water in well with Aquaticus Garden Booster, this will help the seedlings settle in.
Care
Watering
Aim to keep the soil evenly moist, water slowly allowing the water to sink down into the roots, rather than allowing it to run off the top of the soil surface. Add Saturaid into the soil at planting as this will help channel the water deep down into the root zone.
Feeding
When planted in the ground liquid feed every month with Aquaticus Garden Booster, this encourages root growth and increases the microbial activity in the soil. Monthly applications of Kings Sheep Pellets will help with soil conditioning and plant health. If planted into a container feed with Kings Liquid Fast Food along with monthly applications of Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster this encourages strong roots and a healthy immune system.
Protecting
Protect your young seedlings from slugs and snails by applying Quash slug bait. Re-apply after rain.
Spraying
Should Whitefly or White Butterfly Caterpillar be an issue spray with Nature's Way Organic Citrus, Vegie & Ornamental Spray
Pruning
Regular Harvesting and removal of old leaves will encourage new leaves to grow.
General Care
When using sprays, chemicals or fertilisers always read the label and follow the instructions. Apply sprays in the evening to avoid harming beneficial insects.
Expert Tip
The best time of the day to plant is early in the morning or late in the day, when the sun is not so hot. Always water plants well before and after planting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to plant kale?
Kale is best planted in early spring or late summer, so it grows in the cooler months. This helps the plant thrive and develop a sweeter taste.
How often should I water kale?
Aim to keep the soil evenly moist, water slowly allowing the water to sink down into the roots, rather than allowing it to run off the top of the soil surface. Add Saturaid into the soil at planting as this will help channel the water deep down into the root zone.
How can I protect kale from pests?
Common pests like aphids and cabbage worms can affect kale. Use row covers, organic insecticidal soap, or introduce beneficial insects like ladybirds to keep pests at bay.
When is kale ready to harvest?
Pick leaves from the lower part of the plant first. Usually at around 60 days from planting. Store in a airtight container in the vegetable crisper in the fridge.
How do I fertilise kale?
When planted in the ground liquid feed every month with Aquaticus Garden Booster, this encourages root growth and increases the microbial activity in the soil. Monthly applications of Kings Sheep Pellets will help with soil conditioning and plant health. If planted into a container feed with Kings Liquid Fast Food along with monthly applications of Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster this encourages strong roots and a healthy immune system.
