Have you heard of cut and come again kale? This amazing plant is exactly what it sounds like: kale that you can cut repeatedly and it will grow back, giving you multiple harvests from just one planting. This makes it an incredibly convenient and cost-effective addition to any garden or even just as a potted plant on your balcony.
Cut and come again kale, also known as “baby kale” or “cutting kale”, provides tender, young leaves that are deliciously sweet and perfect for salads, green smoothies, or cooked dishes. In this post, we’ll explore the benefits of cut and come again kale, how to grow it, and some tips on harvesting and using it.
The Benefits of Cut and Come Again Kale
Cut and come again kale is not only convenient and cost-effective, but it also has several benefits that make it a worthwhile addition to any garden:
Continuous Harvests
As previously mentioned, cut and come again kale can produce multiple harvests from just one planting, making it a great way to save space and money. Just be sure to keep the plants healthy and well-maintained to ensure continued growth.
Nutrient-Rich Leaves
The young, tender leaves of cut and come again kale are packed with nutrients such as iron, calcium, fiber, and vitamins A, C, and K, making it a healthy addition to any diet.
Easy to Grow
Cut and come again kale is relatively easy to grow, even for beginner gardeners. It requires minimal maintenance and can adapt to a variety of growing conditions, including containers.
Cost-Effective
Why buy pre-packaged kale from the grocery store when you can have it fresh and easily available in your own backyard or balcony? Growing your own cut and come again kale is a cost-effective way to add nutritious greens to your meals.
How to Grow Cut and Come Again Kale
Growing cut and come again kale is easy, but there are a few steps to follow to ensure a healthy plant and continuous harvests.
Planting
The best time to plant cut and come again kale is in early spring or late summer. Plant the seeds 1/4 inch deep in well-draining soil that has been enriched with compost or other organic matter. Space the seeds 8-10 inches apart and keep the soil moist.
Light and Water
Cut and come again kale thrives in full sun or partial shade, so be sure to plant it in a location that gets at least 6 hours of sun per day. Water the plants regularly, aiming for at least 1 inch of water per week. Be sure not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
Maintenance
Once the plants reach 2-3 inches tall, thin them out to leave only the strongest and healthiest plants. Fertilize the plants every 4-6 weeks with a high-nitrogen fertilizer to encourage growth. Monitor the plants for pests or diseases and take action promptly if any issues arise.
Harvesting
When the leaves reach 2-3 inches in length, you can start harvesting the outer leaves. Use scissors to cut the leaves 1 inch above the soil. Be sure to leave at least one-third of the plant intact so it can continue to grow. You can expect to harvest every 3-4 weeks.
Concluding Thoughts on Cut and Come Again Kale
Cut and come again kale is a versatile, nutritious, and cost-effective addition to any garden or balcony. With minimal effort, you can enjoy multiple harvests of this delicious and healthy green. Give it a try and see how easy it is to grow your own cut and come again kale!
FAQs about Cut and Come Again Kale
What is cut and come again kale?
Cut and come again kale is a type of kale that can be harvested repeatedly, producing multiple yields from just one planting.
What are the benefits of cut and come again kale?
Cut and come again kale provides continuous harvests, nutrient-rich leaves, is easy to grow, and can save money compared to buying pre-packaged kale from the grocery store.
How do I grow cut and come again kale?
Plant the seeds 1/4 inch deep in well-draining soil enriched with compost. Space the seeds 8-10 inches apart and keep the soil moist. Thin the plants to leave only the strongest and healthiest ones. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks with a high-nitrogen fertilizer and monitor for pests and diseases. Harvest the outer leaves when they reach 2-3 inches in length, leaving at least one-third of the plant intact.
Can I grow cut and come again kale in containers?
Yes, cut and come again kale can adapt to a variety of growing conditions, including containers. Just be sure to choose a container that is at least 8 inches deep and provide adequate light and water.
