Growing Collards, also Collard greens, Borekale
Brassica sp. : Brassicaceae / the mustard or cabbage family
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S | |||||||||||
| T | |||||||||||
| P | P |
(Best months for growing Collards in USA - Zone 5a regions)
- S = Plant undercover in seed trays
- T = Plant out (transplant) seedlings
- P = Sow seed
- Easy to grow. Grow in seed trays, and plant out in 4-6 weeks. Sow seed at a depth approximately three times the diameter of the seed. Best planted at soil temperatures between 46°F and 86°F.
- Space plants: 16 - 20 inches apart
- Harvest in 8-11 weeks.
- Compatible with (can grow beside): Dwarf (bush) beans, beets, celery, cucumber, onions, marigold, nasturtium, rhubarb, aromatic herbs (sage, dill, chamomile)
- Avoid growing close to: Climbing (pole) beans, tomato, peppers (chili, capsicum), eggplant (aubergine), strawberry, mustard
Leafy, green vegetable - heat tolerant so a good substitute for kale and cabbage in tropical areas. Also recommended for health reasons.
For best flavor and texture, leaves should be picked before they reach their maximum size.
Culinary hints - cooking and eating Collards
Slice and steam or use in stir-fry.
One of the most common vegetables in East Africa.
In the United States, collard greens symbolize Southern culture and African-American culture and identity.
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