Quick sum-up
Kale , a food - packed leafy green , is a staple in many gardens . harvest shekels correctly not only ensures fresh , flavorful greens but also promotes continuous increment throughout the time of year . By following thesesimple techniques , you could enjoy abountiful supplyof kale for calendar month to come .
When to Harvest Kale
The ideal time to harvest kale depends on the variety and yourdesired sizing . broadly speaking , you canbegin harvestingwhen the leaves are about 6 - 8 inches long . For larger leave , wait until they reach 10 - 12 inches . Avoid harvest too early on , as the leaves will be tender and miss flavor .
How to Harvest Kale
1. Choose the Right Tool
apply tart , unobjectionable shearsor a tongue to cut thekale leaves . avert tear or hurt the stems , as this can damage the plant .
2. Harvest from the Outside
Start harvest home from theouter leavesfirst . These folio aretypically largerand more mature than the inner ones .
3. Cut at the Base
Cut the leaf at the base of the root , closelipped to themain shuck . keep off swerve into the independent shuck , as this can undermine the plant life .
4. Leave the Heart Intact
When harvesting , leave thecentral heart(theyoungest farewell ) intact . This will advance the plant life tocontinue producingnew leave of absence .
5. Harvest Regularly
Harvest lolly on a regular basis topromote continuous development . purport to harvest about 1/3 of the plant at a time , allowing the remaining foliage to go on growing .
How to Store Kale
To maintain the freshness and flavor of your kale , store it properly :
1. Wash and Dry
Before storing , wash the kale thoroughly to take any crap or detritus . sway offexcess waterand pat theleaves drywith a clean towel .
2. Wrap in a Damp Paper Towel
Wrap the lettuce in a damppaper toweland localize it in aplastic travelling bag . The theme towel will helpabsorb excess moisture , preventing droop .
3. Refrigerate
Store the kale in the refrigerator for up to 5 mean solar day . Keep it in thecrisper drawerto maintain freshness .
How to Encourage Regrowth
To keep yourkale works producingthroughout the season , accompany these bakshish :
1. Water Regularly
Water yourkale plants deeplyand regularly , peculiarly during red-hot , dry atmospheric condition .
2. Fertilize
inseminate your kale plants every few week with abalanced fertilizer . This will provide thenutrients neededfor uninterrupted emergence .
3. Mulch
propagate a layer oforganic mulcharound the base of yourkale plants . Mulch helps hold wet , suppress weeds , and shape soil temperature .
Troubleshooting Common Problems
1. Kale Leaves Turning Yellow
yellow leaves can point a want of food or overwatering . Check your dirt pH and adjust if necessary . obviate overwatering and allow the soil todry slightlybetween waterings .
2. Kale Leaves with Holes
hole in kale leave-taking can be triggered by pests such as aphids orcabbage worm . Useinsecticidal soapororganic gadfly dominance methodsto make do these pests .
3. Kale Leaves Wilting
Wilting leaves can be a sign of underwatering , heat stress , or disease . Ensure your plants arereceiving passable waterand protect them from uttermost temperatures . see for signs of disease and treat accordingly .
Final Thoughts: Enjoying Bountiful Kale Year-Round
By play along these harvesting and care tip , you may enjoy acontinuous supplyof fresh , flavorful wampum throughout the time of year . Remember toharvest regularly , store properly , andencourage regrowthto maximize your kale harvest time . With a little care and attending , you’re able to keep your kale plants thriving and enjoy the nutritional benefit of this leafy green all class long .
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q : Can Iharvest kalein the winter?A : Yes , somekale varietiescanwithstand cold temperaturesand continue producing leaves in the winter . Choose stale - hardy varieties and protect them from frost with row cover charge or mulch . Q : How do Iprevent kalefrom bolting?A : Bolting is whenkale works produce flowersand go to seed . To prevent this , keep your plants well - watered and fertilized , andavoid exposingthem toextreme heator cold . Q : Can I freeze down kale?A : Yes , you canfreeze kaleto save it forlonger storage . Blanch thekale leavesfirst by boil them for 2 - 3 minutes , then drain and freeze out in airtight containers .
