Kale, a nutrient-rich leafy green, is a popular choice for home gardens due to its versatility, hardiness, and ability to thrive in various climates. Whether you’re growing curly kale, dinosaur kale (Lacinato), or red Russian kale, knowing when to harvest is key to enjoying the tastiest and most nutritious leaves. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best times to harvest kale and how to ensure a continuous, bountiful crop throughout the growing season.
Understanding Kale Growth Stages
Kale loves cooler weather and grows best when temperatures are between 45°F and 75°F (7°C to 24°C). It can withstand light frosts, and some varieties even taste better after a touch of frost, which sweetens the leaves. Knowing how kale grows will help you determine the optimal harvest time.
Kale typically goes through three growth stages:
- Seedling Stage: Kale seeds germinate within 5-10 days. After sprouting, they develop into small seedlings.
- Vegetative Stage: This is when kale leaves grow large and vigorous, perfect for harvesting.
- Bolting Stage: As temperatures rise, kale may bolt, meaning it sends up a flower stalk. Leaves harvested after bolting can become bitter and tough, so it’s best to avoid this stage for prime flavor.
When to Harvest Kale for the First Time
You can start harvesting baby kale leaves as early as 25-30 days after planting. These fresh young leaves are great for tossing into salads or blending into smoothies. For full-size kale, wait until the plant is about 8-10 inches tall, which usually takes around 50-60 days.
At this point, the kale should have developed several mature leaves while still producing new growth from the center. Look for leaves that are about the size of your hand and a rich green color, depending on the variety.
Signs Your Kale is Ready to Harvest
Knowing the visual and tactile cues will help you determine when your kale is ready to harvest. Here are some issues:
- Size: Full-grown leaves should be 6-10 inches long. You can also choose smaller leaves if you prefer a softer, more tender texture.
- Color: Leaves should have a deep green (or purple, depending on the variety) hue without yellowing or browning.
- Texture: Kale leaves should feel fresh, firm, and crisp when you touch them. Avoid harvesting leaves that have started to wilt or curl inward, as these may be past their prime.
Best Time of Day to Harvest Kale
To get the best flavor and crispness, pick your kale in the early morning. The cooler temperatures overnight help the leaves retain their moisture, making them more tender and flavorful. Avoid picking kale in the heat of the day, as the leaves may become wilted and less tasty.
Dealing with Unexpected Garden Visitors
While managing your kale garden, you might notice other unexpected phenomena, such as mushrooms growing in your yard. If you’re curious about these garden visitors, check out Why Are Mushrooms Growing in My Yard? for more information on why they appear and what it means for your garden.
How to Harvest Kale for Continuous Growth
To encourage continuous growth and a longer harvest season, follow these tips:
- Start with the Outer Leaves: Always pick the outer, lower leaves first, leaving the center intact. This lets the plant continue growing and sprouting fresh leaves at the top.
- Harvest Only What You Need: Kale can last in the garden for weeks or even months, so avoid harvesting all at once. Instead, pick a few leaves at a time, enough for your immediate needs. This method, known as “cut and come again,” allows the plant to continue growing and providing more leaves.
- Prune Damaged Leaves: Remove any yellow, damaged, or insect-eaten leaves. This not only helps the plant focus on healthy growth but also keeps pests at bay.
Harvesting Kale After Frost
Kale is one of the few vegetables that can survive frost, and in fact, many gardeners swear by harvesting after a frost for sweeter, more flavorful leaves. A light frost triggers a natural response in the plant, causing it to convert stored starches into sugars. This results in leaves that are less bitter and more tender.
However, heavy frosts or freezing temperatures can damage kale, especially if the ground freezes solid. If you’re expecting a hard frost, it’s a good idea to harvest your kale beforehand or cover your plants with frost cloths to protect them.
What to Do with Bolted Kale
If your kale plants have bolted and the leaves become too tough or bitter to eat raw, don’t worry! There are still ways to enjoy your crop:
- Cook the Leaves: While bolted kale leaves may be too bitter for salads, they can still be used in cooked dishes. Sautéing, steaming, or adding them to soups can soften the texture and mellow the flavor.
- Harvest the Flower Buds: The flower buds of bolted kale, sometimes called “kale raab,” are edible and taste similar to broccoli rabe. You can lightly sauté or steam them for a delicious side dish.
How to store kale
To keep kale fresh, start by choosing firm, dark green leaves that are free from yellowing or wilting. Wash the kale under cold water and make sure to dry it thoroughly using a clean towel or salad spinner. Wrap the dry leaves in paper towels to absorb any remaining moisture, and then store them in a plastic bag or airtight container in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. If you want to store kale for a longer period, blanch the leaves by boiling them for 2-3 minutes, then cool them in an ice bath. After drying, place the kale in freezer-safe bags and store them in the freezer for up to 6 months. Properly stored, fresh kale should stay good for about a week in the fridge.
How to keep kale fresh in refrigerator
Start by selecting kale with firm, dark green leaves. Avoid any bunches that are yellowing or wilted. Rinse the kale under cold water and dry it thoroughly using a clean towel or a salad spinner. Moisture can cause the kale to spoil quickly, so ensure the leaves are completely dry. Wrap the dry kale in paper towels to absorb any residual moisture. To keep your kale fresh, simply wrap it in a paper towel or a clean cloth and store it in a plastic bag or airtight container. If you’re using a plastic bag, make sure to leave it slightly open to let in some air, which helps prevent excess moisture buildup. Store the bag or container in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. This method will keep your kale fresh and crisp for up to a week.