How to Harvest Kale So It Keeps Growing and Thriving
How to Harvest Kale So It Keeps Growing?
To harvest kale so it keeps growing, start by cutting the largest and oldest leaves near the stem using pruning shears.
Avoid cutting the root as it may damage potential new growth.
Leave the terminal bud at the top center of the plant to allow for continuous leaf growth.
Regularly harvest your kale every 5-7 days, removing fully mature leaves and avoiding picking too many immature leaves to prevent stunting growth.
Also, remove yellow or spotted leaves during harvesting to improve overall plant health.
To store harvested kale, wash the leaves with cold water, remove any debris, and pat them dry with a paper towel.
Let the leaves air dry for about 10 minutes and then place them in a resealable plastic bag with a paper towel to prevent moisture damage.
Remove as much air from the bag as possible and store in the refrigerator in a vegetable drawer.
Consume within two weeks and discard wilted or yellow leaves.
Harvesting kale promotes further growth of the plant.
Key Points:
- Use pruning shears to cut largest and oldest leaves near the stem
- Avoid cutting the root to prevent damage to new growth
- Leave the terminal bud at the top center of the plant for continuous leaf growth
- Harvest kale every 5-7 days, removing fully mature leaves and avoiding immature ones
- Remove yellow or spotted leaves while harvesting to improve plant health
- Wash, dry, and store harvested kale properly to prevent moisture damage
Did You Know?
1. Kale, a member of the Brassica oleracea family, is believed to have originated in ancient Greece and was later cultivated by the Romans as a highly valued vegetable.
2. Contrary to popular belief, kale is not a seasonal plant but can be grown year-round in temperate regions, making it an excellent choice for continuous harvest throughout the year.
3. To prevent kale from becoming bitter, it is recommended to harvest the outer leaves first, allowing the younger leaves in the center of the plant to continue growing and developing their flavor.
4. Kale leaves taste sweeter and have a milder flavor after they have been exposed to a light frost, making it a great vegetable to harvest during the fall and winter months.
5. When harvesting kale, it is important to use a sharp knife or pair of shears and cut the leaves just above the crown of the plant to encourage further growth and prevent damage to the stem.
Introduction To Kale: A Frost-Friendly And Hardy Leafy Green
Kale, a frost-friendly and hardy leafy green, has gained popularity among families, health enthusiasts, and beginner growers. Not only is kale easy to grow, but it is also packed with essential nutrients, making it a perfect fall crop choice. Fully mature kale leaves, about the size of your hand, are ready for harvest approximately 70 days after planting. However, for those looking for a quicker harvest, microgreens, which are baby kale leaves, can be harvested as early as 25 days after planting. Harvesting kale can be a continuous process, ensuring you have a fresh supply throughout the growing season.
Different Varieties Of Kale For Cultivation
There are different varieties of kale that can be cultivated, each with its unique characteristics and flavors. Some popular varieties include curly kale, lacinato kale (also known as dinosaur kale), and ornamental kale. The method of harvesting kale remains the same, regardless of the variety chosen. Whether you prefer the ruffled leaves of curly kale or the smoother texture of lacinato kale, the following steps will help you harvest kale properly to ensure continuous growth and abundant leaf production.
Harvesting Fully Mature Kale Leaves: When And How
To harvest fully mature kale leaves, wait until they reach the desired size and texture, which typically occurs around 70 days after planting. When harvesting, use pruning shears and cut along the base near the stem. Be cautious not to cut the root of the plant, as it can damage potential new growth. It is advised to harvest the largest and oldest leaves first to prevent the plant from bolting. Bolting refers to the plant prematurely producing flowers and seeds, leading to a decline in leaf production. Additionally, avoid picking the terminal bud located at the top center of the plant to allow for continuous new leaf growth. By regularly harvesting your kale and removing mature leaves every 5-7 days, you will encourage new leaf growth and prolong the harvest season.
Harvesting Microgreens: Quick And Early Harvesting Option
For those eager to enjoy the flavor and nutritional benefits of kale at an earlier stage, harvesting microgreens is an excellent option. Microgreens are baby kale leaves that can be harvested as early as 25 days after planting. Simply snip the leaves from the base using clean kitchen scissors or a sharp knife. Harvesting microgreens allows you to enjoy an early taste of kale while providing the plant ample opportunity to continue growing and producing larger leaves.
Tips For Properly Storing Harvested Kale
Properly storing harvested kale is vital to ensure its freshness and enjoyment over an extended period. Begin by washing the leaves with cold water, avoiding the use of hot or warm water as it can cause wilting. Remove any debris from the leaves before proceeding. If you plan on eating the stems, leave them intact; otherwise, it is recommended to remove them.
After washing, pat the leaves dry with a paper towel and allow them to air dry for about 10 minutes to eliminate excess moisture. Do not store kale while still wet, as it can lead to wilting and sliminess.
To store the leaves, place them in a resealable plastic bag with a paper towel. The paper towel absorbs any remaining moisture, preventing damage to the leaves. Remove as much air from the bag as possible before sealing. Finally, store the bag in the vegetable drawer of your refrigerator, consuming the kale within two weeks. Remember to discard any wilted or yellow leaves to ensure the freshness of the remaining kale.
Harvesting Kale To Promote Growth And Abundant Leaf Production
Harvesting kale not only provides you with delicious and nutritious leafy greens, but it also promotes further growth of the plant. By regularly harvesting mature leaves and removing any yellow or spotted leaves during the process, you improve the overall health and well-being of your kale plant.
If you notice persistent issues with yellow or wilted leaves, consider revisiting your pest control measures and adjusting your watering tactics.
To extend the kale harvest into winter, shield the plant from harsh weather conditions using a row cover, hoop house, or tarp. This protection will help maintain the plant’s health and prolong its leaf production.
Encouraging abundant leaf growth and optimizing kale’s potential requires continued care and attention to harvesting, ensuring a bountiful supply of this popular superfood.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you cut kale so it continues to grow?
To encourage continuous growth of kale, carefully trim the stem just below the point where it meets the larger leaves. By preserving the smaller leaves, the plant’s growth cycle remains uninterrupted. This technique fosters the plant’s ability to generate new leaves, ensuring a sustainable and thriving kale plant in the long run.
Does kale keep growing after you pick it?
Yes, kale is a remarkable vegetable that continues to grow even after you pick it. Its unique growth pattern allows you to enjoy a continuous harvest throughout the season. When you harvest the leaves, the plant redirects its energy to produce new growth, leading to a regenerative cycle. This characteristic makes kale an excellent choice for home gardeners, as you can harvest a handful of leaves today and come back for a fresh supply in a few weeks. With its never-ending growth potential, kale is truly a gift that keeps on giving.
How do you increase kale growth?
To boost kale growth, one can enhance the native soil by incorporating a few inches of well-aged compost or other organic material that is nutrient-rich. This addition will provide the necessary nutrients for the plants to thrive. Given that kale is a rapid grower, it is vital to maintain moisture levels in the soil by supplying it with 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week. Additionally, regular feeding of kale plants with a continuous-release plant food will help maximize the harvest, ensuring that the plants have a steady supply of nutrients throughout their growth cycle.
Can you get multiple harvests from kale?
Yes, kale is a resilient leafy green that offers the opportunity for multiple harvests. By taking care to preserve the growing crown, consisting of the top 4-6 leaves, you can ensure that the plant will continuously regenerate new leaves. This allows for a sustainable source of kale, as each harvest will give way to fresh growth, providing you with numerous harvests throughout its lifespan.