Collard greens

Plant family

Crucifers (Brassicaceae)

Season Overview

Details

Light requirement

Sunny

Water requirement

Moist

Soil

Medium (loamy)

Nutrient requirement

High

Plant distance

50 cm

Row spacing

50 cm

Seeding depth

2 cm

Instructions

Description

Collard greens is an umbrella term for some subspecies of the plant species vegetable cabbage (Brassica oleracea), which is grown as a vegetable but also as an ornamental because of its large, dark leaves. It strongly resembles kale, to which it is closely related. There are several varieties of collard greens, which are mainly cultivated in Brazil, Portugal, USA, Africa, Southeastern Europe and in India.

Growing tips

Can theoretically be grown all year round. Cultivation similar to kale. The leaves taste best when harvested after the first frost. Withstands frost well, except in very cold, heavy frosts, can also withstand drought well. Propagated by dividing the shoots. Regular harvesting stimulates growth. If planting in May, cover the seedlings with a crop protection net to protect them from pests. Incorporating seaweed lime before planting protects against cabbage hernia. Sprinkling with rock flour protects against aphids. When harvesting, leave the heart of the plant intact, then the leaves will grow back.