An 18th-century Italian heirloom, Lacinato Kale remains popular today due to the superior flavor of it's sturdy, savoyed, dark blue-green leaves and high nutritional content. Thomas Jefferson recorded the planting of "Cavolo nero (Coleworts)" in his vegetable garden at Monticello on March 12, 1777. Cavolo Nero, or Lacinato Kale, is also known as Tuscan Kale, Dinosaur Kale, and Black Kale. Jefferson-documented: This plant was documented by Thomas Jefferson in his Garden Book, Notes on the State of Virginia, or other writings.
Direct sow seeds 1-2 weeks before last frost date in spring, and 10-12 weeks before first frost in fall in well-drained, fertile soil. Kale is best grown as a spring, fall, or winter crop, as cool temperatures and frosts enhance the flavor. Approximately 100 seeds per packet.
Details
Genus | Brassica |
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Species | oleracea var. acephala cv. |
Exposure | Full Sun | Planting Method | Direct Sow | Planting Depth | 1/4" |
Days to Emerge | 3 - 12 |
Plant Spacing | 8 - 12" apart; rows 16 - 30" |
Habit | 10 - 18" H |
Jefferson documented |