Kale prefer to grow in cooler temperatures, along with other cole crops.  In spring, plants can be planted in the garden as early as the ground can be worked, usually in early March.  Kale is great in smoothies, salads, or even fried into “chips”.

The varieties we grow are:

• Lacinato (Dinosaur) – Large, straplike, blue-green leaves work well in smoothies or other dishes where a large quantity of kale is needed.  Very winter hardy; plants can reach 24-36 inches tall.  60 days to maturity.
• Redbor – Frilly, leaves are very deep red to purple in color; the color is enhanced by cold temperatures.  Baby leaves can be harvested early for salads.  55 days to maturity.
• Snowbor – Vigorous plants produce blue-green leaves.  Try planting this variety in the fall as the leaves become sweeter after a frost.  60 days to maturity.

Plants are available for purchase at Longfellow’s:

March 1 – April 15 for spring crops

August 1 – August 31 for fall crops