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Kale - Black Magic (Dinosaur)

SKU: KC27004A
CA$3.90
CA$3.90
Unavailable
per item
Approximately 315 seeds per gram.
Brassica oleracea
Lot# KC27004
Dinosaur Kale has many names (Black Magic, Tuscan Kale, Flat Black Cabbage, Heirloom Kale and Lacinato Heirloom Kale).  Whatever the name , it is an absolutely stunning plant.  “Dinosaur” is an extremely vigorous and cold hardy plant that can withstand light frost. It is an Italian heirloom that dates back to the eighteenth century. The blue green strap-like leaves are 7.6 cm (3") wide by 25-45 cm (10-18") long with a heavily savoyed texture. It has an excellent flavor that is enhanced by frost. It is best for eating  when leaves are small and tender.
Planting Instructions:
  • You can plant Kale in a number of different ways. The first method is to plant Kale about 3 weeks before last expected fall frost.  Sow 3 seeds every 20 cm (8"), 6 mm-12 mm (¼- ½") deep, 45 cm (18") apart.   Space rows 45-61 cm (18-24") apart. Thin to the strongest plant per group. You can also direct sow Kale seeds as soon as the soil is able to be worked in the spring.  Lastly, grow kale from transplants. Start 6-8 weeks before the last frost in the spring and sow 6 mm-12 mm (¼- ½") deep in pots.  Transplant after last spring frost and plant 45-61 cm (18-24”) apart in rows 45-61 cm (18-24") apart.
  • Soil Conditions:  Well worked rich, loose well-drained soil. Ideal pH: 6.0-6.8. 
  • Planting Depth:  Sow Kale at 6 mm-12 mm (¼-½") deep.
  • Germination:  3-10 days.
  • Height at Maturity: 61-91 cm (2-3") tall.  Spread:  61-91 cm (24-36”) across.
  • Days to Maturity:   55-65 days for maturity. 30 days to baby leaf, 60 to full size leaf. 
  • Watering:   2.5 cm (1") of water a week ensures good growth. The amount of rain that falls during the week affects how much you should water your garden.
  • Sun/Shade:  Full Sun    
  • Spacing after Thinning:   Thin to one plant every 45-61 cm (18-24”). Rows should be 45-61 cm (18-24”) apart. 
Additional Information
Open pollinated-untreated seeds.  For baby Kale leaves sow seeds 5-10 cm (2-4") apart along a short row. Sow Premier Kale at approximately 60 seeds per 30 cm (12”). Clip leaves at 4-5 weeks old for baby kale.    Kale requires good cultivation. Mulch or hoe frequently to keep soil loose and weed-free.  For earlier harvest, sow seeds indoors in a sunny spot or under plant lights 6-8 weeks before outdoor planting date. This works for both the spring and fall. Avoid planting in garden area where cabbage family was grown the year before. Withstands light frost.  Dinosaur has large, crinkled leaves that give it its prehistoric or “Dinosaur” name. Kale is part of the cabbage family, a cabbage that doesn't form a head.  It is one of the most nutritious, delicious, and simple greens to grow. Young leaves make a wonderful addition to fresh salads; more mature leaves are great in a stir-fry or as a dressed (marinated) salad.