Red Russian Kale
Red Russian Kale is a common variety of kale, featuring bright red/purple stems and mild, tender leaves with jagged edges. The leaves are large and softer than other varieties. It can also be harvested as baby greens and works well for a variety of salads. The plant grows well in colder weather.
Maturing timespan: 25 days for baby leaves, 50 days for full-sized leaves
Season: Spring and fall (mild temperatures)
Exposure: Moderate sun
Difficulty: Easy
Planting
Red Russian Kale grows best in cooler weather. It can tolerate heat, however the best growing seasons are starting in April and late July. They can be easily planted indoors and transplanted after 3-4 weeks. If transplanting, place the seedlings about 1 foot apart in the ground. If planting directly outside, plant the seeds after the last frost in the spring, in a single row with seeds placed 1 inch apart.
Caring for the Plant
This plant is easy to grow, however it is susceptible to wilting and damage from insects. To protect the plants, mesh coverings can help, and water the leaves with a strong water pressure. Natural insecticides such as neem oil sprayed on the leaves can also help.
Harvesting
Baby kale of this variety can be harvested about 25 days to 1 month after planting. Full-sized leaves are ready about 50 days after planting. To harvest kale leaves, pick single leaves from the outer edges of the plant using scissors or a sharp tool. Avoid picking entire bunches at a time to allow the inner leaves to continue growing. Harvest leaves in the morning while it is cooler outside to prevent wilting.
Seed Saving Instructions
To save kale seeds, pay close attention to when the plant goes to seed. This process is called bolting. Leave the plants until the seed pods and stalks have turned brown and started to dry out, to ensure the seeds are mature at the time of harvest. Then cut the main stems to harvest lots of pods at once, or remove individual pods from the plant. Place the pods in a dry location for a couple weeks. Once fully dry, place the pods in a paper bag and shake it to release the seeds. Store in a cool, dry place until use.
Sources
- Yablonski, B. (2023, August 23). How to grow and Harvest Red Russian kale. Gardener’s Path. https://gardenerspath.com/plants/vegetables/grow-red-russian-kale/
- Barnett, T. (2019, April 4). Saving kale seeds – learn how to Harvest Kale Seeds. gardeningknowhow. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/kale/how-to-harvest-kale-seeds.htm