Description: 500RED RUSSIANKALESEEDS Cultivating Red Russian Kale: An In-Depth Guide Red Russian Kale, also known as Ragged Jack or Ragged Dukes, is a popular variety of kale that boasts vibrant purple stems and beautifully curled leaves. Not only is Red Russian Kale visually appealing, but it is also incredibly nutritious and easy to grow in temperate climates. In this in-depth guide, we will delve into the process of cultivating Red Russian Kale, from planting to harvesting. Additionally, we will provide a popular recipe and highlight the numerous health benefits of this superfood. 1. Planting: - Choose a location: Red Russian Kale grows best in full sun but will tolerate some shade. It prefers cool temperatures and can be grown throughout the year in cooler climates. - Soil preparation: Prepare a well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or aged manure to enhance its fertility. - Sowing seeds: Directly sow the seeds in the garden bed, about ¼ to ½ inch deep and 12-18 inches apart. If starting indoors, plant the seeds in pots and transplant them after they develop a few sets of leaves. - Watering and maintenance: Keep the soil consistently moist but avoid over-watering, as kale dislikes overly wet conditions. Mulching the soil will help retain moisture and deter weed growth. - Thinning: Once the seedlings have grown their first set of true leaves, thin them out, leaving the strongest and healthiest plants about 8-10 inches apart. 2. Growing: - Fertilization: Red Russian Kale benefits from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer before planting, following the manufacturer's instructions. Additionally, side-dress the plants with compost or a nitrogen-rich fertilizer every four to six weeks to maintain steady growth. - Watering: Water the plants deeply, aiming for about an inch of water per week from either rain or irrigation. Ensure that the soil has proper drainage to avoid waterlogging. - Pests and diseases: Red Russian Kale is relatively resistant to pests and diseases compared to other crops. However, keep an eye out for common kale pests like aphids, caterpillars, and flea beetles. Regularly inspect the plants and apply organic pest control methods if necessary. 3. Harvesting: - Timing: Red Russian Kale can be harvested when the leaves reach a desirable size, usually around 55-65 days after sowing the seeds. The plant can be harvested on a cut-and-come-again basis, meaning you can cut the outer leaves and allow the inner ones to continue growing. - Harvesting technique: Use a sharp knife or shears to cut the leaves at the base, leaving the central bud intact to promote regrowth. Harvesting from the bottom leaves first encourages new growth. Popular Recipe: Red Russian Kale Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing Ingredients: - 6 cups chopped Red Russian Kale leaves - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 small cucumber, sliced - 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese - 1/4 cup slivered almonds For Lemon Tahini Dressing: - 3 tablespoons tahini - 2 tablespoons lemon juice - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 clove garlic, minced - Salt and pepper to taste - Water (as needed for desired consistency) Instructions: 1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped Red Russian Kale, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, feta cheese, and slivered almonds. 2. In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. If the dressing is too thick, gradually add water until the desired consistency is achieved. 3. Pour the Lemon Tahini Dressing over the salad and toss until all ingredients are well coated. 4. Allow the salad to sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve and enjoy! Health Benefits of Red Russian Kale: 1. Nutrient-rich: Red Russian Kale is a powerhouse of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like calcium and iron. 2. Antioxidant properties: The high antioxidant content of Red Russian Kale helps protect against oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. 3. Anti-inflammatory effects: The phytochemicals in kale, such as glucosinolates and quercetin, have demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties. 4. Digestive health: The fiber content in kale supports healthy digestion and aids in preventing constipation. 5. Cardiovascular health: The combination of fiber, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds in Red Russian Kale helps promote heart health by reducing cholesterol levels and blood pressure. With its stunning appearance, nutritive value, and ease of cultivation, Red Russian Kale is a worthy addition to any edible garden. Whether enjoying it raw in salads, sautéed as a side dish, or incorporated into various recipes, the health benefits of this superfood make it a fantastic choice for the conscious eater. As a seller, I understand that there may be some confusion when it comes to the terms and conditions of shipping and delivery. In order to provide clarity, I would like to address a few important points: 1. 3 business day shipping: We strive to ship out your order within three business days from the date of purchase. This means that weekends (Saturday and Sunday) are not considered business days, so please keep this in mind when estimating your delivery time. 2. 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Price: 1.69 USD
Location: Berwyn, Illinois
End Time: 2024-08-10T20:49:22.000Z
Shipping Cost: 0 USD
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Item Specifics
All returns accepted: ReturnsNotAccepted
Climate: temperate
Planting Time: 6 Weeks
Common Name: Kale
Color: Red
Indoor/Outdoor: Outdoor
Growth Habit: Clumping
MPN: n/a
Vegetable Type: Kale
Soil Type: Loam
California Prop 65 Warning: n/a
Brand: Fresh
Season of Interest: Spring
Soil pH: Neutral
Life Cycle: Annual
Type: Vegetable Seeds
Watering: Medium
Unit Type: Unit
Genus: Brassica
Sunlight: Full Sun
Features: Edible
Cultivating Difficulty: Easy
Country/Region of Manufacture: United States
Unit Quantity: 500