Kale – Vates Blue Scotch Curled

Brassica oleracea var. sabellica – ‘Vates Blue Scotch Curled’

• Growing Temp 45°F – 85°F

• Days to Maturity 55-65 days

Ease of Cultivation and Rich Flavor: ‘Vates Blue Scotch Curled’ kale is a cold-hardy variety with attractive, deeply curled leaves. It is easy to grow, particularly in cooler temperatures, and offers a rich, earthy flavor. This variety is ideal for home gardeners looking for a reliable crop that can be used in salads, soups, and stews, or cooked as a side dish.

Direct Sowing: To direct sow ‘Vates Blue Scotch Curled’ kale, plant the seeds outdoors in early spring or late summer, as this variety thrives in cooler weather. Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep and 12-18 inches apart in rows spaced 18-24 inches apart. The seeds typically germinate within 5-10 days. Kale prefers well-drained, fertile soil and full to partial sun. Keep the soil consistently moist, and thin seedlings to their final spacing once they are a few inches tall. Expect to start harvesting in 55-65 days.

Early Sowing for Seedlings: For an earlier crop, start ‘Vates Blue Scotch Curled’ seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date. Sow the seeds 1/4 inch deep in seed trays filled with a high-quality potting mix. Maintain a temperature of 65°F-75°F for optimal germination. Once seedlings have developed 2-3 true leaves and the weather has warmed, transplant them outdoors, spacing them 12-18 inches apart. Water well after transplanting to ensure proper root establishment.

Harvesting: ‘Vates Blue Scotch Curled’ kale is ready for harvest when the leaves are large enough to use, usually around 55-65 days after sowing. For fresh salads, harvest young, tender leaves. Larger leaves can be cooked or added to soups and stews. Start by cutting the outer leaves, leaving the central bud to continue producing more foliage. The leaves develop a sweeter flavor after exposure to light frost, making this kale particularly delicious when grown in the cooler seasons.