Kale Seeds,
Nero Di Toscana

Nero di Toscana can be planted in both spring and fall. For a spring harvest, sow seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. For a fall harvest, sow seeds directly outdoors in mid-summer. Kale thrives in cooler temperatures and can tolerate light frosts, which enhance its flavor.If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in seed-starting mix if starting indoors. Space seedlings about 18-20 inches apart once transplanted. Nero di Toscana kale prefers rich, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Incorporate plenty of organic matter into the soil to improve fertility and moisture retention​.

This variety requires full sun to partial shade. Consistent watering is important to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Mulching around the base of the plants helps to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to support robust leaf production.

• 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.