LACINATO DINOSAUR KALE STARTS

This Italian heirloom, commonly called Dinosaur Kale, gets its nickname from the textured, heavily wrinkled leaves. The 3-inch-wide leaves have a mild flavor, perfect for steaming or boiling. Baby leaves can be harvested as early as 30 days and make a great addition to salads, while mature leaves are ready in about 60 days.

Kale, technically a type of leafy, non-heading cabbage, has a long history dating back to ancient Greek and Roman civilizations. Its origins are believed to lie in Asia Minor or the Mediterranean, though its history is so ancient that its exact beginnings remain uncertain. Kale first appeared in American records in a 1669 publication, likely brought over by European settlers. While kale remains a minor crop in the U.S., it thrives in European kitchen gardens. Lacinato, in particular, is a Tuscan kale variety that dates back to 18th-century Italy and has become a cherished heirloom.

Transplanting Seedlings: Lacinato Dinosaur Kale

1. Timing: Transplant Lacinato Dinosaur Kale seedlings outdoors 2-3 weeks before the last expected frost date in spring or 6-8 weeks before the first frost date in fall. Kale is a cold-hardy crop that thrives in cool weather.
2. Preparation: Choose a sunny location with rich, well-draining soil. Work compost or aged manure into the soil before planting to ensure the plants have access to essential nutrients. Kale prefers a soil pH between 6.0-7.5.
3. Spacing: Space seedlings 12-18 inches apart in rows 18-24 inches apart. Proper spacing allows the plants to develop their large, textured leaves and ensures good air circulation.
4. Planting Depth: Plant the seedlings at the same depth they were growing in their pots. Avoid burying the stem too deeply, as this can hinder growth.
5. Watering: Water the seedlings thoroughly after transplanting. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, as kale prefers steady moisture throughout its growth cycle.
6. Mulching: Apply a 1-2 inch layer of organic mulch around the plants to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Mulch also helps keep the soil cool during warmer weather.
7. Feeding: Fertilize every 3-4 weeks with a balanced or nitrogen-rich fertilizer to promote healthy, leafy growth. Organic options like compost tea or fish emulsion are excellent choices.
8. Cold Protection: If planting early or late in the season, consider using row covers to protect young seedlings from harsh frost or unexpected temperature drops.

Growing Tips:
To promote healthy growth, keep weeds under control and conserve moisture by applying mulch. Ensure the soil stays evenly moist, but discontinue watering after the first frost to allow the plant to focus on its cold-hardiness.

Harvesting Tips:

• Harvest baby leaves as soon as they are large enough for salads.
• For larger leaves, harvest as needed using scissors or a knife to avoid damaging the stems.
• To harvest the entire plant, cut it about an inch above ground level.
• To extend the shelf life of fresh leaves, dip the stems in water before storing them in the fridge; they can remain fresh for up to a month. Kale also freezes well for long-term storage.

Kale is a cold-hardy crop and can be harvested well into the frost season, as most varieties tolerate freezing temperatures.

Latin Name: Brassica oleracea

Type: Open Pollinated, Heirloom, Cool Season

USDA Zones: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

Sunlight: Full Sun

Height: 36 Inches

Color: Green