Kale Seeds, Thousandhead

star-filled
4.8
28 Reviews
Sku:
#KA111
Min. seed count:
250
$4.00

Description

(Brassica oleracea). Grow mammoth-sized kale with tender leaves that can reach up to 3 feet long. Also known as "Branching Borecole", this ancient variety was mentioned in 1885 by French seed house Vilmorin as a productive, multi-branching type from the U.K., originally from western France. Traditionally valued in the U.K. as a fodder crop but is now recognized as a delicious culinary option. Its lightly curled leaves make it easier to manage pests like cabbage worms, which are easier to spot and treat. This seed is sourced from Kings Seed of England, a family-owned seed house with a history dating back to 1793. 

  • 50-65 days to maturity
  • 6-12 hours of sun
  • Sprouts in 6-9 days
  • Ideal Temperature: 45-85 F
  • Seed Depth: 1/4"
  • Plant Spacing: 8"
  • Frost Hardy: Yes

Growing Tips, Tricks and FAQs

Growing Tips

Thousandhead kale grows best in full sun, but it can also tolerate partial shade. The ideal soil pH for this plant is between 6.0 and 7.5. This kale is cold-hardy and can withstand frosts, making it suitable for late fall and early spring planting.

When to Grow

Thousandhead Kale can be sown directly into the garden either in early spring, 2-4 weeks before the last frost, or in late summer, 8 weeks before the first expected frost, for a fall harvest. It performs best in cooler temperatures ranging from 45 F to 85 F​.

How to Sow and Plant

Sow Thousandhead kale seeds about 1/4 inch deep in well-draining soil. Space the plants 8 feet apart to accommodate their large size. This spacing allows for adequate air circulation, which helps prevent disease. Mulching around the plants can help retain moisture and keep the soil cool​.

How to Grow

Thousandhead kale requires consistent moisture to thrive; it typically needs 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week. Use mulch to conserve soil moisture and reduce weeds. This kale variety is relatively low maintenance, tolerating a range of soil conditions, and is less prone to common kale pests and diseases​.

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

Is Thousandhead kale frost-tolerant?
Yes, this kale variety is highly frost-tolerant. Its flavor and texture often improve after exposure to frost, making it an excellent choice for fall and winter gardens.

How tall can Thousandhead kale grow?
Most leaves grow to be 3 feet long; however, the plant can reach up to 5 feet, making it a substantial plant in any garden​.

Can Thousandhead Kale grow in less-than-ideal soil conditions?
Yes, it is quite resilient and can tolerate less-than-ideal soil conditions, including poor soils​; however, planting in rich soil will have better results.

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Kale Seeds, Thousandhead
star-filled
4.8
Customer reviews (28)

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