GROW GUIDE

Blue Curled Scotch Kale

Brassica oleracea var. acephala

Plant Description

Blue Curled Scotch Kale

A hardy leafy green known for its deeply curled, blue-green leaves, forming a ruffled, textured appearance.

This nutrient-rich staple, originating from the Brassica family, is prized for its robust, earthy flavor with a hint of sweetness, making it a versatile addition to soups, salads, and sautés.

Gardening Level: easy

Quick Facts:

  • Sun Requirements

    Full Sun/Partial Shade

  • Days To Sprout

    5-14 Days

  • Days To Harvest

    50-70 Days

  • Plant Spacing

    12-18"

  • Seeds Per Hole

    3

  • Planting Depth

    1/4"

Best Planting Locations

  • Garden Plots

    Ideal for direct sowing, providing rich, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.

  • Raised Beds

    Perfect for outdoor growth with ample space for root development and excellent drainage.

  • Protected Areas

    In hot climates, choose locations with some afternoon shade to prevent bolting.

  • Containers

    Great for small spaces, offering flexibility in positioning and control over soil quality.

Getting Started

  • 1

    Find the Spot

    Kale thrives in cooler weather, preferring full sun or partial shade with at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight each day. If growing indoors, a bright, sunny window with good airflow works best.

  • 2

    Prep the Soil & Fertilizer

    Use well-draining, fertile soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. Kale benefits from compost or aged manure mixed in before planting. For optimal growth, apply a balanced fertilizer or nitrogen-rich amendments as the plant matures.

  • 3

    Plant the Seeds

    Plant 3 seeds 1/4 inch deep in moist, well-draining soil, keeping it consistently moist but not waterlogged during germination.

    The ideal soil temperature for germination is between 50-85°F, with an optimum range of 60-65°F.

    Thin seedlings 12–18 inches apart once they develop strong leaves.

Good Neighbors:

  • Carrots:

    Similar growing conditions, preferring cool weather and moist soil

  • Beans:

    Add nitrogren to the soil, improving kale's growth

  • Garlic:

    Acts as a natural pest repellent, helping to deter aphids and other common pests

  • Nasturtium:

    Acts as a "trap crop", attracting pests like aphids, flea beetles, and caterpillars away from your kale plants

Enemy Plants:

  • Strawberries, Cabbage & Broccoli:

    Share the same pests, diseases, and nutrient needs

  • Tomato

    Both heavy feeders that compete for nutrients

Attractants:

  • Aphids, Cabbage Worm, Flea Beetles, Harlequin Bugs

    Kale is a food source

Repellents:

  • No known repellents

Best Time to Plant

USDA Hardiness Zones

Day to Day Maintenance

  • Watering

    Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Blue Curled Scotch Kale thrives with even watering, especially during hot weather. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, but ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot.

  • Pruning

    Regularly remove any yellowing or damaged leaves to keep the plant healthy.

The Harvest

  • Gathering

    For a continuous harvest, pick the outer leaves first, allowing the center to keep producing new growth. This encourages a longer, more productive season.

  • Extra Tip

    For the best texture and flavor, harvest in the morning after the leaves have crisped up overnight.

Favorite Uses

  • Salad

  • Pesto

  • Smoothie

  • Chips

  • Soup

How to Store

  • Refrigeration

    • Duration: Up to two weeks
    • Location: Store in the refrigerator
    • Method: Wrap kale leaves loosely in a dry paper towel to absorb excess moisture, and place them in a perforated plastic bag or an airtight container. This keeps them crisp and prevents wilting.

  • Freezing

    • Duration: Several months
    • Location: Store in the freezer
    • Method(Whole Leaf): Blanch leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath. Pat dry and freeze flat on a baking sheet before storing in a freezer-safe bag.

  • Freezing

    • Duration: Several months
    • Location: Store in the freezer
    • Method (Chopped/Prepped): Finely chop kale, pack into ice cube trays with a bit of water or oil, and freeze. This makes it easy to add to soups and smoothies.

  • Drying

    • Duration: Up to one year
    • Location: Warm, dry, and well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight
    • Method: Remove leaves from stems and spread them in a single layer on a drying rack or use a food dehydrator on a low setting. Store dried leaves in an airtight container.

Fun Facts

  • Cold Weather Champion

    Kale thrives in cool temperatures and even becomes sweeter after a light frost.

  • Ancient Superfood

    Kale has been cultivated for over 2,000 years and was a staple in the diets of ancient Greeks and Romans.

  • Curly and Crunchy

    Its signature ruffled leaves aren’t just for looks—they help trap dressing in salads and add extra texture to dishes.

  • Nutritional Powerhouse

    Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, Blue Curled Scotch Kale is one of the most nutrient-dense leafy greens you can grow.