Organic 'Red Russian' Kale
identification
description
Kale 'Red Russian' (Brassica napus var. pabularia) – Offered by Ferme Tourne-Sol
'Red Russian' kale is a hardy and tender variety, recognizable by its blue-green leaves with purple veins and its soft and slightly sweet texture . Less tough than other kale varieties, it is delicious raw in salads or cooked in soups and stir-fries . Very resistant to cold , it gains in flavor after a touch of frost, making its leaves even more tender and sweet.
Type : Kale
Plant habit : Upright and vigorous
Spread : 40 to 60 cm
Plant height : 60 to 90 cm
Quantity per pack : 250 seeds
Maturity : 50 to 60 days
Companion plants : Beans, beets, carrots, garlic, celery
Enemy plants : Strawberry, tomato
Cultivation method
'Red Russian' kale thrives in full sun to partial shade in rich, well-drained, slightly moist soil. Sow directly in the ground after the last frost or start seedlings indoors 4-6 weeks before transplanting . Plant seeds 1 cm deep , in rows 45 cm apart, then thin to 30-40 cm to allow for proper development. Regular watering promotes tender, flavorful leaves. Pick the outer leaves as they appear , leaving the heart of the plant intact for a continuous harvest throughout the season.
Use and benefits
With its mild, slightly sweet flavor , Red Russian cabbage is perfect raw in salads, sautéed with garlic, added to soups, or made into crispy chips . It is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, iron, fiber, and antioxidants , contributing to a healthy, energizing diet .
With its fast growth, cold hardiness and exceptional flavor , 'Red Russian' kale is a must-have for lovers of nutrient-rich leafy vegetables .
