What To Know
- Kale, a leafy green known for its nutritional value and versatility, is a must-have in any home garden.
- Harvest kale in the morning when the leaves are cool and crisp.
- Store harvested kale in a damp paper towel-lined plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Kale, a leafy green known for its nutritional value and versatility, is a must-have in any home garden. If you’re new to growing kale, harvesting it can seem daunting. But with the right techniques, you can easily enjoy fresh, homegrown kale throughout the season.
When to Harvest Kale
The ideal time to harvest kale depends on the variety you’re growing.
- Loose-Leaf Kale: Harvest when leaves are young and tender, about 6-8 weeks after planting.
- Curly Kale: Harvest when leaves are fully mature, about 8-10 weeks after planting.
- Winter Kale: Can be harvested throughout the winter, as long as the leaves remain green and healthy.
How to Harvest Kale
Materials:
- Sharp knife or shears
- Basket or bag
Steps:
1. Choose the Right Leaves:
Identify the outer leaves that are mature and have reached the desired size. Avoid harvesting the central leaves, as they need to continue growing.
2. Cut or Snap:
Use a sharp knife or shears to carefully cut the leaves from the stem. Alternatively, you can snap them off with your hands.
3. Remove the Stem:
Trim off the tough stem from the base of the leaves.
4. Wash and Dry:
Rinse the harvested kale thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat dry with a clean towel.
Harvesting Techniques
1. Single-Leaf Harvesting:
Harvest individual leaves as needed, leaving the rest of the plant to continue growing. This is ideal for loose-leaf varieties.
2. Bunch Harvesting:
Cut an entire bunch of leaves at once, close to the base of the plant. This method is suitable for curly and winter kale.
Tips for Harvesting Kale
- Harvest kale in the morning when the leaves are cool and crisp.
- Avoid harvesting during hot, sunny days, as the leaves may wilt quickly.
- If you’re harvesting a lot of kale, consider blanching it to preserve its freshness and nutrients.
- Store harvested kale in a damp paper towel-lined plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
What to Do with Harvested Kale
Kale is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes:
- Salads
- Sautéed dishes
- Soups and stews
- Smoothies
- Juices
Harvesting Kale in Different Seasons
Spring:
- Harvest young, tender leaves for salads and smoothies.
Summer:
- Harvest more mature leaves for sautéing and soups.
Fall:
- Continue harvesting kale as long as the leaves remain green.
Winter:
- Winter kale varieties can withstand cold temperatures and provide fresh greens throughout the winter.
Harvesting Kale for Seed
If you want to save seeds for future planting, follow these steps:
- Allow the kale plants to flower and produce seed pods.
- When the seed pods turn brown and dry, harvest them.
- Remove the seeds from the pods and store them in a cool, dry place.
What People Want to Know
Q: Can I harvest kale after it has bolted?
A: Yes, but the leaves may be tougher and less flavorful.
Q: How do I harvest kale for baby greens?
A: Harvest the young, tender leaves when they reach about 2-3 inches in length.
Q: Can I harvest kale in the rain?
A: No, avoid harvesting kale in the rain as the leaves may become waterlogged and spoil quickly.
