There is no substitute for leafy greens when it comes to a healthy diet and what could be better than kale! Read on to know all about Growing Kale in Pots!
Growing Kale in Pots is a great way to get your hands on healthy greens even when you’re short on space. Kale has innumerate health benefits on offer and you’ll be reaping them all fresh and free!
Common Names: Leaf Cabbage, Borecole, Curly Kale, Kale
Botanical Name: Brassica oleracea acephala
Check out our article on growing Kohlrabi in pots here
Planting Time
Being a cool-weather crop, kale can withstand temperatures as low as 20 F (-5 C). For cold regions, plant in early spring. If you live in a mild-winter region, fall is the best time. For warm areas, plant in late summer.
Growing Kale in Pots
Planting kale seeds is a pretty straightforward method. Sow half an inch deep and space them 3-4 inches apart. Potatoes, celery, onions, beets, and herbs are some of the great companion plants for kale.
Hanover Late Seedling, Red Russian, Blue Curled Scotch, Winterbor, Dwarf Green Curled, Blue Knight, and Greenpeace are some of the best varieties to grow.
Popular Types of Kale
- Lacinato Kale/Dinosaur Kale: Has blue-green rumpled leaves with a reptile-like texture.
- Ornamental Kale: Comes in pink, purple, and magenta hues. Forms a rosette.
- Red Russian Kale: Its blue-green or red leaves resemble that of oaks.
- Siberian Kale: Has large, gray-green ruffled leaves.
- Redbor Kale: This is Ornamental and edible with stunning red leaves with purple veins.
Choosing a Container
For one plant per pot, 8-12 inches container will be more than enough. Drainage holes are a must. If you are growing multiple plants together, or growing kale with herbs, go for a 22-24 inches pot.
Requirements for Growing Kale in a Pot
Soil
Kale loves light-weight soil and any potting mix having perlite, coconut husk, manure or compost, and peat will work great in this regard.
Location
The plant will thrive in both shady locations and bright sun. Moving the pots accordingly will ensure you get a thriving harvest.
Watering
For soft and flavorful leaves, keeping the plant well-watered is crucial. Mulching will also help to keep the moisture locked and plant cool.
Kale Plant Care
Fertilizing
Feed the plant regularly with a continuous-release plant food according to the dosage and intervals recommended on the label. Alternatively, side-dress plants with aged compost every 5-6 weeks.
Pests and Diseases
Be careful about cabbage worms, flea beetles, and cabbage aphids. Using insecticidal soap or neem oil spray will be enough to take care of them.
Thankfully, kale is safe from serious disease problems.
Harvesting and Storage
You can harvest in 65-80 days after sowing seeds. Wait till the plant reaches about 10-12 inches in height and then cut individual leaves as required. You can also harvest the entire plant. Leave 2-3 inches from the bottom and it will grow again.
Kale tastes best when fresh. However, you can store them in a refrigerator for 7-10 days in plastic bags.
