Often a neglected crop, but one that is increasing in popularity, kale tolerates cold weather better than most other brassicas and isn't troubled by birds, clubroot and cabbage rootfly. It will also tolerate a lightly shaded position.
Always pick the leaves when they are young and tender.
Sow thinly 13mm (0.5in) deep in a seed bed in rows 15cm (6in) apart from March to June. Thin the seedlings to 7.5cm (3in) apart.
Kale can also be treated as a cut-and-come-again crop. Sow the seed where you want it to grow.
Transplant the young plants to their growing position when plants have five or six true leaves, setting the lowest leaves at ground level. Water well the day before moving, firm in well after transplanting and 'puddle' in the plants with plenty of water. Space 45cm (18in) between plants.
Water well in dry weather and conserve soil moisture with a mulch. A spring feed will improve results.
Protect the plants from birds by covering with netting or fleece.
Start to remove young leaves from the top of the plant from October onwards. Sideshoots are formed after the main crown is harvested and these are ready for use from February to May; pick shoots that are 10-15cm (4-6in) long and still young.
As a cut-and-come-again crop harvest when the plants are 5cm (2in) high. Further young leaves will be produced that can be cut again.
