Redbor Coated

Redbor Coated Kale is an organic variety of kale known for its vibrant red/purple curly leaves and exceptional nutritional value. This variety features a stunning appearance and is highly prized for both its taste and visual appeal. The coated seeds ensure better germination and more consistent plant growth, making it a fantastic choice for gardeners looking for a robust, attractive kale plant.

Key Benefits

• Vibrant Color: Redbor Coated Kale is renowned for its deep purple-red leaves that bring a burst of color to your garden, making it not only edible but also an ornamental plant.
• Cold-Hardy: This kale variety can tolerate cold weather and even light frosts, which often enhance the flavor, making it ideal for winter harvesting.
• High in Nutrients: Like other kale varieties, Redbor Coated kale is rich in vitamins A, C, K, iron, fiber, and antioxidants, offering a healthy addition to your diet.
• Mild Flavor: The leaves are tender with a mild, slightly sweet flavor, making it more palatable for people who find some kale varieties bitter.
• Coated Seeds for Better Germination: The coated seeds increase seedling success by providing better moisture retention, quicker germination, and higher success rates, especially in cooler climates.

Planting Instructions

Planting Season

• Redbor Coated Kale thrives in cool weather and is ideal for planting in early spring or fall. It can handle light frosts and grows best in cooler temperatures.

Planting Details

• Seed Depth: Plant the seeds 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep in the soil.
• Spacing: Space the plants 12 to 18 inches apart to allow for optimal growth and airflow.
• Sunlight: Kale prefers full sun to partial shade, but it can tolerate some shade, especially in warmer climates.

Care Instructions

Watering

• Consistent moisture is key for healthy kale plants. Water the plants regularly, ensuring the soil stays moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overhead watering to prevent disease and fungal issues.

Fertilizing

• Before planting, amend the soil with organic compost to ensure that it has the necessary nutrients. You can also side-dress with balanced fertilizer or compost midway through the growing season to support continued growth.

Mulching

• Apply organic mulch around the plants to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and maintain cooler soil temperatures, especially during hot spells.

Pest and Disease Control

• Pests: Redbor Coated Kale is susceptible to aphids, cabbage worms, and slugs. Use natural pest control methods such as neem oil, diatomaceous earth, or companion planting to keep pests under control.
• Diseases: Kale is prone to fungal diseases like powdery mildew and downy mildew. Ensure good air circulation around the plants and avoid wetting the leaves when watering. Practice crop rotation and avoid planting kale in the same spot year after year.

Harvesting

• Baby Kale: For tender, baby kale leaves, start harvesting about 30-40 days after sowing. These small leaves are perfect for fresh salads or smoothies.
• Mature Kale: For mature, fully-grown leaves, wait about 50-75 days after planting. Harvest outer leaves first and leave the inner leaves to continue growing for a longer harvest.

Additional Notes

• Flavor: Redbor Coated Kale has a mildly sweet flavor, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of dishes, from raw salads to cooked soups, stews, and stir-fries.
• Storage: Fresh kale can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. To store for a longer period, blanch and freeze the kale for future use.
• Companion Planting: Redbor Coated Kale grows well when planted alongside beets, onions, radishes, and herbs like dill or oregano. Avoid planting near tomatoes, as they can attract similar pests.

Conclusion

Redbor Coated Kale is a stunning, nutritious vegetable that adds beauty and flavor to any garden. Its striking purple-red curly leaves, combined with its mild flavor and cold-hardiness, make it an excellent choice for gardeners looking for a beautiful and productive crop. With the added benefit of coated seeds, this kale is easier to grow, ensuring healthy, strong plants that will thrive throughout the growing season.