Grow Red Russian Kale from fresh Brassica oleracea seeds. Red Russian Kale produces delicious, green-gray leaves that turn purple in cooler climates. Much larger than most kale plants, this variety will grow 12 to 36 inches tall and spread about 12 inches wide. Red Russian Kale is ready for harvesting, roughly 60 days after first sprouts appear.
You might be shocked to learn that Kale is among the most nutrient dense vegetables on the planet. In fact, a single cup of Kale contains vitamins A, K, C and B6 and also contains Manganese, Calcium, Copper, Potassium and Magnesium as well. Kale, like other leafy greens, is very high in antioxidants including beta-carotene, as well as various flavonoids and polyphenols. Other benefits of consuming Kale include, reduced risk of heart disease & heart failure, as well as reduced risk of cancer.
Sowing The Seed
Kale seeds prefer a cooler climate and can be started indoors, or directly outdoors when the weather is warm and all danger of frost has passed. If sowing indoors, sow in peat pots, 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost, at a depth of 1/4″ under topsoil. Transplant or direct sow outdoors after all danger of frost has passed.
Growing Conditions
Because Kale prefers cooler temperatures, grow it in an area of light to partial shade in warmer climates and in an area of full sunlight in cooler climates. A temperature of 70F is best. It is recommended to provide a loamy, well-drained soil that is low in nitrogen. So a pH level between 5.5 and 6.8 is best. Water the soil daily until germination has occurred.
Germination & Growth
Kale seeds will begin to sprout within 7 to 10 days after sowing. The plants will reach a mature height of roughly 12 to 36 inches tall and can spread 12 inches wide. Space the plants roughly 1.5′ apart from one another in rows spaced 2′ apart. Red Russian Kale will produce large, delicious, green-gray leaves that turn purple in cooler climates.