Organic 'Black Magic Kale'
Organic 'Black Magic Kale' (Brassica oleracea var. palmifolia) from Gaia seed company, a dark lacinato variety, nutritious and cold-resistant
'Black Magic Kale' produces vigorous, upright plants with long, narrow, very dark green, almost blue-black leaves with a slightly ruffled texture typical of lacinato kale. The thick yet supple foliage develops a rich, earthy flavor that becomes noticeably milder after a light frost , enhancing the taste at the end of the season.
Exceptionally cold-resistant and highly productive , this kale adapts to a wide variety of climates and is easy to grow, whether in a home vegetable garden or in continuous production. Harvestable leaf by leaf over a long period, it is a reliable, nutritious, and versatile leafy vegetable, appreciated by both beginners and experienced gardeners .
Companion plants: Potato, Beetroot, Lettuce, Chard, Peas, Alliums, Radish, Spinach, Celery, Cucumber, Herbs
Negative plants: Tomato, Strawberry, Grape, Rue
Spread/carry: Upright
Plant height: 60 to 90 cm
Quantity per packet: 50 seeds
Certification: Certified organic
Special features: Lacinato variety, very dark foliage, highly nutritious, cold-resistant, extended harvest
Leaf color: Deep dark green
Texture/flavor: Thick, supple leaves with a mild, earthy flavor after frost
Cold tolerance: Down to -9.5 °C
Farming method
Soak the seeds in lukewarm water for up to 12 hours to promote even germination. Sow directly outdoors as soon as the soil is workable, or start the seeds indoors 4 weeks before planting out . For an autumn harvest, sow approximately 2 months before the first expected frost . Sow at a depth of 1.2 cm , spacing the plants 5 to 10 cm apart for young plants , or 30 to 45 cm apart for mature plants, with rows 45 to 75 cm apart, in rich, well-drained soil .
Kale prefers partial sun/partial shade (level 2) and light to moderate watering (level 1) . Slow growth in cooler climates improves the texture and flavor of the leaves.
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest the leaves as needed , starting with the outermost leaves. The flavor becomes milder after a light frost . After harvesting, it is recommended to cool the leaves in water , then store them in the refrigerator for several weeks in an airtight container.
Usage ideas
• Kale salads
• Nourishing soups and broths
• Stir-fries and stews
• Baked kale chips
• Winter harvest after frost
'Black Magic Kale' is distinguished by its spectacular dark foliage , high nutritional value , and cold hardiness , offering a long and flavorful harvest over a long season. A reliable and elegant variety, essential for the four-season vegetable garden.
