Compact plants reach approximately 30–38 cm tall and 60–64 cm wide. Rosettes remain low but may become much broader than they appear when young. For well-aired mature foliage, allow at least 45 cm between plants and more in rich soil. Closer spacing suits only baby-leaf harvest or progressive thinning. Plan final spacing at planting so leaves do not overlap excessively. A clear path simplifies base watering, inspection of the centre, and harvest without compacting soil around roots. In a container, allow one plant per usable volume and rotate the pot for even light. Wide spacing also improves airflow after rain.
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Dwarf kale with deeply curled leaves
Brassicaceae
Organic stem vegetable seeds
Organic ‘Dwarf Green Curled’ kale (Brassica oleracea)
Brassica oleracea, Acephala Group
‘Dwarf Green Curled’ is compact kale producing a broad rosette of deep to yellowish-green, heavily wrinkled, finely curled leaves. Plants reach approximately 30–38 cm tall and nearly 60 cm wide, suiting small beds and large containers. Baby leaves may be cut at approximately 30 days, while mature foliage is generally ready in 50–65 days. Its low rosette withstands wind and fits edible borders without heavily shading neighbouring crops. Harvest outer leaves first while preserving the centre, maintain steady moisture, and protect the curls with insect netting where flea beetles or cabbage butterflies are active. Light frost often improves sweetness. Naturally.
Exposure
Full sun to partial shade
Difficulty level
Easy
Discover the plant
Family
Brassicaceae
Genus
Brassica
Species
oleracea
Cultivar
Dwarf Green Curled
Type
Dwarf kale with deeply curled leaves
Cycle
Biennial grown as an annual
Organic ‘Dwarf Green Curled’ kale (Brassica oleracea, Acephala Group) is a compact variety also known as ‘Dwarf Curled Scotch’, ‘Bloomsdale’, or ‘Jamaica’. It forms a low rosette of deep to yellowish-green, heavily wrinkled, finely curled leaves. Plants generally reach 30–38 cm tall and may spread 60 cm when fully developed. Dense texture suits soup, sautéing, braising, kale chips, and baby-leaf harvest. Low growth also fits readily beneath insect netting supported on hoops and withstands exposed garden sites better than tall kale. Harvested leaves hold sauces well after cooking.
Direct-sow as soon as soil can be worked or start plants four to six weeks before transplanting. For fall harvest, sow again from late June into early August according to region. Place in full sun or light partial shade in fertile, mature-compost-enriched, moisture-retentive, well-drained soil. Space plants 30–45 cm apart for mature leaves, wider when preserving the full rosette width. Maintain steady moisture and protect from emergence with insect netting where flea beetles and cabbage butterflies are active. Water transplants immediately and weed shallowly to protect their developing roots. Mulch only after soil warms and seedlings establish.
Maturity generally ranges from 50 to 65 days; Baby leaves may be harvested from approximately 30 days. Take outer leaves while leaving the central growing point intact so plants continue producing. Low habit withstands wind well and particularly suits small gardens and containers, but leaves must be lifted to inspect for caterpillars hidden in the centre. Light frost often improves sweetness; still rotate Brassicas for three to four years and remove diseased debris. Wash the tightly curled leaves carefully, refrigerate harvest promptly, and discard every slimy or mouldy portion. Keep the basket shaded until it reaches the kitchen.
Planting guide
From planting to establishment.
Planting depth
Approximately 1 to 2 cm (3/8 to 3/4 in)
Spacing / density
Thin to approximately 10 to 15 cm (4 to 6 in), with 30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 in) between rows
Establishment temperature
Approximately 10 to 24°C
Establishment time
Approximately 7 to 10 days
Best planting time
Early spring as soon as soil can be worked, then late summer for an autumn crop
Propagation
Direct sowing or indoor sowing three to four weeks before transplanting
Growing method
Sow approximately 0.5–1 cm deep in fine soil or mix kept moist. For transplanting, start four to six weeks before the target date and harden plants gradually for one week. Transplant at four to six true leaves, 30–45 cm apart, keeping the root ball at the same level. For baby leaves, sow more densely and cut above the centre. Make a second sowing from late June into early August for fall. Water immediately, protect from flea beetles, and inspect foliage regularly. Keep the seedbed evenly moist until emergence and thin without disturbing the roots of retained seedlings. Install insect netting over hoops before flea beetles or cabbage butterflies arrive, sealing every edge. Mulch after establishment, water at soil level, and harvest outer leaves first. For continuous picking, sow a small amount every two or three weeks in spring, then begin again in summer for fall. After light frost, pick only firm healthy leaves. Refrigerate harvest promptly and wash thoroughly before preparation. Remove yellow or badly damaged foliage so airflow remains open around the centre. Label every sowing date. During sowing and cultivation, inspect Organic ‘Dwarf Green Curled’ kale regularly and adjust care to its actual stage of growth.
Soil and care
The right conditions.
Exposure
Full sun to partial shade
Soil pH
Approximately 6.0 to 6.8
Watering
Keep the seedbed consistently moist until emergence, using a gentle stream so seed is not displaced. After establishment, water deeply when the top 2–3 cm begins to dry so roots grow downward rather than remain at the surface. Irregular moisture makes foliage tougher, increases bitterness, and may slow regrowth after picking. Mulch once soil has warmed to limit evaporation and splashing. Water at soil level in the morning, avoid unnecessary wet foliage, and check containers daily during hot or windy periods.
Soil type
Prepare fertile deep soil enriched with mature compost, well drained yet able to hold steady moisture. Loose loam supports vigorous roots and continuous tender-leaf production; poor sand dries too quickly and compact clay deprives roots of air. Aim for approximately pH 6.0–7.0. Do not lime without a test: a slightly higher pH may reduce clubroot risk, but excessive correction unbalances nutrients. Avoid beds recently occupied by diseased Brassicas and maintain a three- to four-year rotation.
Fertilization
Incorporate mature compost before sowing and base additional feeding on a soil test or label directions. Kale uses nitrogen steadily to renew foliage, but excessive amounts create soft growth and may delay cold acclimation. In moderately fertile soil, apply balanced fertilizer at planting, then if leaves pale after several harvests, one small side-dressed nitrogen dose followed by watering. Never add boron without confirmed deficiency because the margin between need and toxicity is narrow. Stop late feeding before severe cold.
Seasonal care
In spring, immediately protect seedlings from flea beetles with tightly sealed insect netting. Weed without damaging shallow roots, thin to final spacing, and mulch once soil has warmed. During summer, pick outer leaves, water steadily, and inspect leaf undersides for eggs and caterpillars. In fall, remove yellow leaves and leave the centre intact after light frosts. At the end of the crop, remove diseased plants and avoid composting heavily infected tissue. Also monitor heat: light afternoon shade and mulch reduce summer stress without replacing deep watering. After each picking, remove damaged leaves without cutting the centre. Loosely stake an unusually tall plant in a windy site. Before severe cold, harvest a reserve of sound leaves because no precise minimum temperature is guaranteed. During thaws, vent protective fabric briefly to prevent persistent condensation. Wash harvested leaves, dry them, and refrigerate promptly. Record sowing and first-harvest dates to adjust successions to your microclimate. Clean reusable containers before the next season and replace mix that held a diseased plant. Check netting after storms, repair gaps immediately, and keep foliage from pressing tightly against the mesh. Maintain clear paths so repeated harvest never compacts wet soil around roots. Remove volunteer Brassicas and sanitize tools before moving from a diseased bed to a healthy one. Label every sowing and record the first harvest date. Keep paths clear so repeated picking never compacts wet soil around roots.
Container growing
A controlled environment.
Recommended pot size
At least 25 to 30 cm (10 to 12 in) deep and approximately 5 to 7 L per plant
Choose a container at least 30–40 cm deep and approximately 30 cm wide per plant with numerous drainage holes. Use rich but airy potting mix amended with mature compost and place in sun or light partial shade. Water as soon as the surface begins to dry because a restricted root ball loses moisture quickly. Apply diluted fertilizer according to label directions after several harvests if colour pales. Pick outer leaves and leave the centre growing. In hot summer weather, move the container into some afternoon shade. Allow one plant per usable volume so air moves around the rosette and leaves reach full size. Raise the container slightly for free drainage, empty every saucer, and rotate the pot weekly for even growth. A thin mulch limits drying without touching the centre. Add a small hoop covered with insect netting where caterpillars or flea beetles occur. Harvest after dew dries, wash leaves, and refrigerate promptly. In fall, move the container near a bright wall to reduce wind without placing it where roof runoff collects. Remove yellow foliage and check drainage after heavy rain. Start a younger pot in midsummer when a long fall harvest is desired.
Bloom and dimensions
The complete profile.
Flower color
Yellow
Foliage color
Deep to yellowish green
Foliage type
Broad blue-green leaves borne on long petioles
Growth rate
Moderate
Bloom period
Grown for leaves, ‘Dwarf Green Curled’ normally does not flower during its first season. A plant that survives winter may elongate and produce clusters of small yellow Brassica flowers the following spring. Bolting gradually reduces leaf quality. Harvest the final tender foliage before buds open fully, or allow one healthy plant to bloom for insects where possible self-seeding is acceptable. Flowering does not indicate a disease, but it marks the transition from leaf production to reproduction.
Fruiting
After second-year flowering, narrow seedpods may form and contain seed. This stage is not desired for leaf production because foliage becomes tougher and the plant directs energy toward reproduction. Cut flower stalks before pods develop to limit volunteer seedlings, or allow only healthy plants to dry when seed saving is permitted and clearly identified. Keep harvested seed separate from edible leaves and discard every mouldy or damaged portion.
Harvest
Harvest baby leaves from approximately 30 days once they reach a useful size, or wait approximately 50 to 65 days for mature foliage. Cut outer leaves 2–3 cm from the stem without injuring the central bud or removing more than one-third of foliage at once. Harvest weekly during active growth. Choose firm fresh unblemished leaves and cool promptly. Wash only before use and refrigerate in a perforated bag. After light frost, taste before harvesting more because flavour often becomes sweeter.
Garden associations
What to plant with it.
Good companions
Lettuce, radish, and low herbs may temporarily occupy the edge while kale is young provided they do not compete with roots or block airflow around the rosette. Onions, beets, or peas in a neighbouring row may share the garden when every crop retains its spacing, water, and light. These combinations mainly organize space and provide no guaranteed pest protection. Avoid crowding with other Brassicas that share several diseases and insects, then maintain a three- to four-year rotation. Remove companions that begin shading the centre or making harvest difficult.
Avoid planting with
Strawberry, tomato, cauliflower
Harvest tender baby leaves for salad after thorough washing, or cook larger foliage by steaming, sautéing, braising, baking into chips, or adding it to soups and bean dishes. Remove thick stems when too fibrous; still-tender stems may be chopped and cooked before the blades. Pick after dew dries, keep the basket shaded, and refrigerate promptly. Discard every slimy, mouldy, heavily damaged, or abnormal-smelling leaf. Wash hands and utensils and prevent cross-contamination during preparation. Chill cooked leftovers within two hours promptly.
From the garden to inspiration.
‘Dwarf Green Curled’ sautéed kale — Wash 300 g sound leaves thoroughly, remove the thickest stems, and slice foliage. Heat 15 ml oil in a large pan, add one garlic clove for 30 seconds, then kale while still slightly damp. Cover for two minutes, uncover, and sauté three to five minutes until tender. Add lemon, pepper, and a small pinch of salt. Serve hot. Refrigerate leftovers within two hours and discard any slimy, mouldy, or abnormal-smelling leaf. For a heartier version, add cooked chickpeas or warmed white beans during the final two minutes. Taste before salting because added ingredients may already be seasoned. Tender stems may be finely chopped and cooked one minute before the leaves; compost only sound portions that are too fibrous. Use a clean cutting board, wash hands, and prevent cross-contamination with raw animal foods. Cool any extra portion quickly in a shallow container and reheat it thoroughly only once.
Frequently asked questions
Everything toknow.
Harvest baby leaves at approximately 30 days when they measure about 8–12 cm, or wait 50–65 days for mature foliage. Pick outer leaves while firm, well coloured, and still tender. Always leave the central cluster intact and remove no more than one-third of foliage at once. Harvest after dew dries and cool the leaves promptly. Wash the curls carefully, dry leaves, and refrigerate promptly in a ventilated container. Use slightly marked foliage first and discard every slimy, mouldy, or abnormal-smelling portion. Continue watering after harvest so the centre can produce new leaves. Pick after dew dries, keep the basket shaded, and continue watering regularly after harvest.
Folds may hold soil, sand, small insects, or eggs less visible than on flat leaves. Separate foliage, inspect both surfaces, swish in a large bowl of cold water, then rinse under clean running water. Repeat if sand remains at the bottom and dry before storage. Discard every slimy, mouldy, heavily spotted, or abnormal-smelling leaf. Keep harvested leaves shaded, replace wash water when sand accumulates, and clean the sink after preparation. Refrigerate promptly and never store a slimy leaf with the rest of the harvest. Inspect the dense centre outdoors before bringing foliage into the kitchen. Use clean utensils and wash hands before preparation.
Install insect netting over hoops immediately after sowing or transplanting and seal its edges carefully. Check that no eggs or caterpillars are already trapped underneath. Hand-pick discovered caterpillars, remove volunteer Brassicas, and rotate crops. Kale does not require insects to form leaves, so netting may remain during growth. Open only for maintenance and close immediately. Inspect netting after wind and rain because a small opening admits butterflies. Leaves should not remain pressed against the mesh. If an infestation appears, identify the pest before choosing a registered product and follow its label exactly. Wash every harvested leaf carefully before preparation. Close every opening immediately after maintenance.
Yes. Allow one stable container at least 30–40 cm deep and approximately 30 cm wide per plant, fitted with several drainage holes. A wider box retains moisture longer and may share space with a few young lettuces early in the season. Use rich well-drained potting mix, then water when the top few centimetres begin drying without allowing water to stand in the saucer. Rotate the pot when light is uneven and feed lightly after several harvests only if foliage pales. Pick outer leaves regularly while preserving the centre. Remove lettuces before they compete with roots or block airflow around the rosette, then inspect the tight curls carefully for hidden soil and caterpillars.
Its strengths, naturally.
Not recommended for pets
Pets
Attracts or supports pollinating insects
Pollinators
