Kale Nero Di Toscana Seeds

Also known as Lacinato or Cavolo Nero, this classic Italian kale produces dark blue green, heavily savoyed leaves with a sweet earthy flavour that improves after light frost.

 

Nero Di Toscana forms upright vigorous plants ideal for cut and come again harvesting and is prized for soups, sautés and hearty winter salads. Hardy, nutritious and reliable, it suits both kitchen gardens and larger vegetable plots.

 

Seed Qty Approx 400

 

Sow March to July for successive crops

Germination 5 to 10 days at 15 to 20°C

Soil Fertile moist well drained loam or sandy neutral to slightly alkaline with good organic matter

Height 40 to 90 cm depending on spacing and conditions

Harvest 6 to 12 weeks from sowing for baby leaves; full leaves later in season

Good Companions Alliums beans beetroot herbs such as dill and coriander

Avoid Pairing With Strawberries brassicas that attract similar pests

 

 

Sowing Instructions

Sow thinly in trays or modules March to July and keep at 15 to 20°C for rapid germination. Transplant when 4 to 6 true leaves have formed and harden off before planting out at 30 to 45 cm spacing. For direct sowing choose April to July in rows and thin to final spacing. Successional sowings every 2 to 4 weeks extend the harvest season. Protect young plants from slugs and caterpillars and consider using floating row cover for early protection.

 

Grow in fertile moist soil with regular feeding during active growth. Water evenly to avoid stress and reduce bitterness. Harvest outer leaves as required to encourage continued production. Overwinter in mild climates with a protective mulch and rotate crops annually to minimise pest build up. Remove older lower leaves to maintain airflow and plant vigour.