Prizm kale is a compact, high-density planting variety known for its tightly ruffled green leaves and unusually mild flavor. This hybrid is perfect for small gardens, patios, or urban growing spaces, producing tender leaves ideal for fresh salads, soups, and garnishes. Its uniform growth and quick regrowth after harvesting make it a favorite among home gardeners.
Kale Growing Guide
Outdoor Sowing (Directly in the Garden)
- Timing: Sow kale seeds outdoors in early spring, 3–4 weeks before the last frost date, or in late summer for a fall harvest. Kale grows best in cool temperatures and can tolerate light frosts.
- Location: Choose a sunny spot or an area with partial shade, especially in warmer climates. Kale thrives in fertile, well-draining soil.
- Soil Preparation: Loosen the soil to a depth of 10–12 inches and incorporate compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and drainage. Kale prefers soil with a pH of 6.0–7.5.
- Planting Seeds:
- Sow seeds 1/4–1/2 inch deep and 1 inch apart in rows.
- Space rows 12–18 inches apart for proper airflow and ease of harvesting.
- Thinning: Thin seedlings to 12–18 inches apart once they are 2–3 inches tall to give plants room to grow.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply and regularly, especially during dry periods.
Indoor Sowing (Starting Seeds Indoors)
- Timing: Start kale seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last expected frost date for an earlier harvest.
- Containers: Use seed trays or small pots with good drainage, filled with a light, well-draining seed-starting mix.
- Planting:
- Sow seeds 1/4–1/2 inch deep, placing 1–2 seeds per cell or pot.
- Cover lightly with soil and water gently.
- Germination:
- Maintain a temperature of 65–75°F for optimal germination.
- Expect seedlings to emerge within 5–10 days.
- Transplanting: Transplant seedlings outdoors when soil temperatures are consistently above 50°F and plants have 4–5 true leaves. Space plants 12–18 inches apart in rows.
General Care Tips for Kale
- Sunlight: Provide full sun for best growth, but kale can tolerate partial shade, especially in warmer climates.
- Watering: Water consistently to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Fertilizing: Kale is a moderate feeder. Enrich the soil with compost before planting and side-dress with a balanced fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the growing season.
- Weeding: Keep the area weed-free to reduce competition for nutrients and moisture. Be careful not to disturb kale's shallow roots when weeding.
- Pest and Disease Control: Monitor for pests like aphids, cabbage worms, and flea beetles. Use row covers to protect young plants and apply organic pest control methods if necessary.
- Harvesting: Harvest kale leaves when they are 4–8 inches long. Pick outer leaves first, leaving the inner leaves to continue growing. Baby kale can be harvested earlier for tender leaves.
- Cold Tolerance: Kale is very cold-tolerant and can survive frosts and light snow. Fall-grown kale often tastes sweeter after exposure to frost.
