Kale Seeds, Japanese Flowering

star-filled
4.5
6 Reviews
Sku:
#KA104
Min. seed count:
75
$4.00

Description

(Brassica oleracea var. acephala). Japanese Flowering Kale, or habotan, is one of the most colorful and delicious edible greens we've tasted. With dramatic ruffles and a sublime flavor, its bold fuchsia and cream-colored leaves add sweetness and refinement, making it exceptionally gourmet. This vegetable is perfect for cooking and cool-weather landscaping, as its color and sweetness intensify with frost. Often seen brightening up winter gardens, habotan symbolizes blessings, love, and prosperity, particularly during the Japanese New Year. These rosette-shaped plants, rich in antioxidants, are commonly found in garden beds, borders, and pots, dazzling both in the garden and on the plate.

  • 85 days to maturity
  • 6-12 hours of sun
  • Sprouts in 6-9 days
  • Ideal Temperature: 45-85 F
  • Seed Depth: 1/4"
  • Plant Spacing: 14"
  • Frost Hardy: Yes

Growing Tips, Tricks and FAQs

Growing Tips

Japanese Flowering kale grows best in cooler temperatures, with its colors intensifying as temperatures drop below 50 F. It grows best in full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially in warmer climates to prevent bolting.

When to Grow

Flowering kale can be planted in both early spring and fall. For fall and winter displays, sow seeds in mid to late summer, about 8 weeks before the first expected frost. In spring, start seeds indoors or direct seed 2-4 weeks before the last frost date and transplant them outdoors once the soil has warmed up.

How to Sow and Plant

Seeds should be sown about 1/4 inch deep in well-drained, fertile soil. Space the seeds or seedlings about 14 inches apart to allow enough room for the plants to grow without crowding, which can reduce air circulation and increase the risk of disease. When transplanting from containers, dig a hole slightly wider and deeper than the root ball and place the plant so that its lowest leaves are at soil level.

How to Grow

Maintain consistent soil moisture, especially during dry spells, by watering deeply and regularly, but avoid waterlogging. Mulching around the plants can help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Fertilize at planting with a balanced fertilizer, but avoid over-fertilizing as this can lead to poor coloration and leggy growth​.

How to Save

  • Like all cabbage family members, kale is biennial.
  • Kale is insect pollinated and will cross with some closely related cabbage family members, so it is wise to isolate varieties at least a mile apart to ensure pure seed. Other techniques such as alternate day caging can be used if isolation is not possible.
  • You will need to overwinter plants to harvest seeds. Mulch plants heavily with straw or cover with row cover and greenhouse plastic in an attempt to nurse plants through the winter. You can also dig up plants and store them inside to replant in spring.
  • When the flower spikes emerge in the second year, let the seed pods dry to brown and cut off the entire flower spike.
  • Hang flower stalks upside down indoors over a tarp, allowing the seeds to drop onto the tarp.
  • Seeds will remain viable for up to 4 years.

FAQ

Can Japanese Flowering kale be grown in containers?
Yes, it can. Choose a pot that is at least 12 inches deep and wide to accommodate the plant's root system. Ensure the container has good drainage​.

How long does it take for Japanese Flowering kale to mature?
It typically takes about 85 days to reach full maturity. The leaves become most vibrant after exposure to cooler temperatures​

How do I prevent pests and diseases in Japanese Flowering kale?
Common pests include aphids, cabbage worms, and slugs. To prevent infestations, inspect plants regularly and use organic methods like insecticidal soap or neem oil if pests are detected. Good air circulation can help prevent fungal diseases such as downy mildew. Mulching and avoiding overhead watering also reduce the risk of disease by keeping leaves dry.

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Kale Seeds, Japanese Flowering
star-filled
4.5
Customer reviews (6)

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