Brassica oleracea var. sabellica – Lacinato

Growing Temp 55°F – 75°F
Days to Maturity 60-80 days

Nutritious, hardy, and easy to grow: Lacinato Kale, also known as Dinosaur Kale, is a dark green, deeply textured variety prized for its rich flavor and nutritional benefits. It is relatively easy to grow and thrives in cool weather, making it a resilient choice for gardeners. Its tender leaves can be eaten raw in salads, sautéed, or added to soups and stews.

Direct Sowing: Plant seeds directly in the garden as soon as the soil can be worked in early spring or late summer for a fall crop. Sow seeds 1/4–1/2 inch deep, spacing them 12 inches apart in rows 18–24 inches apart. Keep the soil consistently moist for even germination, which usually occurs within 7–14 days. Thin seedlings as needed to prevent overcrowding and encourage healthy growth.

Early Sowing for Seedlings: Start seeds indoors 4–6 weeks before the last frost for an early harvest. Use seed trays filled with nutrient-rich potting mix and plant seeds 1/4 inch deep. Keep the temperature between 60–70°F for optimal germination. Once seedlings develop strong roots and a few sets of leaves, harden them off before transplanting outdoors, spacing them 12 inches apart in well-draining soil.

Harvesting: Harvest Lacinato Kale when the leaves reach 8–12 inches long and are deep green with a firm texture. Begin by picking the outer leaves, allowing the inner leaves to continue growing for a prolonged harvest. Kale becomes sweeter after exposure to light frost, making fall-harvested leaves particularly flavorful. Regular harvesting encourages continuous production.