Kale is a versatile and nutritious leafy green that thrives in Georgia’s Zone 8a climate. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, growing kale can be incredibly rewarding. In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about growing kale, from planting and care to harvesting and overwintering for an even more productive second year.
There are several types of kale to choose from, each with its unique flavor and texture:
- Curly Kale: Popular and easy to grow, with tightly ruffled leaves. Varieties include ‘Winterbor’ and ‘Dwarf Blue Curled.’
- Red Russian Kale: Has flat, tender leaves with a slightly peppery flavor. Varieties include ‘Red Russian’ and ‘Ragged Jack.’
2. Planting Kale
- Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around your kale plants to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Organic mulches like straw, leaves, or wood chips work well.
4. Fertilizing
- Initial Fertilization: Kale is a heavy feeder and benefits from a balanced fertilizer at planting time. Use a 10-10-10 (N-P-K) fertilizer or a composted organic fertilizer.
- Ongoing Fertilization: Feed your kale plants every 4-6 weeks with a nitrogen-rich fertilizer to encourage leafy growth.
One of the best aspects of growing kale in Zone 8a is its ability to overwinter successfully. Kale is hardy and can survive light frosts, which actually improve its flavor by making the leaves sweeter.
- When to Harvest: Begin harvesting kale leaves when they are about the size of your hand. Start with the oldest, outermost leaves and work your way inwards.
- How to Harvest: Cut or snap off leaves at the base, being careful not to damage the central growing point. Regular harvesting encourages new growth and extends the harvest period.
Growing kale in Georgia Zone 8a is a rewarding endeavor that can yield bountiful harvests year-round. With proper care and attention to planting, watering, and pest management, you can enjoy fresh, homegrown kale from your garden. Plus, the ability to overwinter kale for an extremely productive second-year harvest is a fantastic bonus. Give kale a try in your garden, and experience the joy of growing this nutritious green.