Description
Brassica oleracea (Lacinato or Dinosaur kale) has long, narrow, deeply textured blue-green leaves that look beautiful in edible beds and mixed containers. Plants can reach about 2–3 feet tall and wide when given room. Harvest the tender outer leaves regularly and leave the center growing for repeat pickings.
Growing in Alabama
Plant in full sun during fall or late winter, when cool weather brings the best flavor and leaf quality. Give plants fertile, well-drained soil enriched with compost and steady moisture; mulch lightly to conserve water. Kale tolerates frosts and often improves in flavor after cool nights, but can become bitter or bolt as Alabama weather warms. Watch for cabbage worms and aphids, especially during mild spells.
Excellent for soups, sautés, salads made with tender young leaves, and attractive cool-season edible landscaping. Although often grown as an annual vegetable, kale is botanically a biennial.
