Crystal Red Kale Care Guide

Plant in full sun (6-8 hours) to produce good leaf colors.

Let the soil dry a bit between waterings. Supplement during dry periods and water at the base of the plant with a soft shower spray. Try to avoid hitting the leaves to help prevent fungal infections.

If the humidity is too high, this plant can develop fungal issues on the leaves.

The cooler temperatures of winter and spring suppress chlorophyll production and enhance the colors in the leaves. Daytime temps between 40°F-70°F give the best results for color.

This plant is a cool-season plant that can survive down to 5°F and will last into winter. Most grow for their ornamental colors and leaves and discard them after the first season. They will not perform well above 80°F.

Fertilize with a root hormone to establish the roots or plant in rich organic matter that is well draining. There is no need to fertilize there after.

To transplant into a garden container or the garden bed, water your plant the night before. Cultivate the soil to an 8-10 inch depth. Dig the hole twice as wide as the grower pot and the same depth (not deeper). Remove the plant and center in the hole. Water in the hole and let drain. Add organic compost mixed with your native soil and mix. The pH level should be slightly acidic between 5.5 to 6.5. Fill around the plant and up to the top of its soil line. Tamp down with your hands to remove any air pockets. Water again around the drip line, being careful not to soak the leaves to help prevent fungus. Mulch up to the drip line of the plant to keep her roots cool. Keep her soil moist as it gets established.

In mild winter climates, these plants frequently endure winter and remain attractive until they bolt in spring. Quickly trim any flower stems that may develop.

To plant kale seed, find a full sun exposure and sprinkle each seed 12 inches apart in rich, organic, slightly acidic soil pH between 5.5-6.8. Plant 1/4-1/2 inch deep into well-draining soil about three months before your first fall frost date in your planting zone. Water well. Seeds will begin to germinate within 5-7 days if the soil is at 70°F. If it's cooler, it may take longer. Keep the soil evenly moist while the seedlings are established. You may want to mulch around it once it's established to keep the roots cooler and moist.