How to Harvest Kale: Tips and Tricks for a Bountiful Crop

Kale is a nutritious and delicious superfood that is easy to grow in your garden. Not only is it packed with essential vitamins and minerals, but it can also be harvested throughout the year. However, many people struggle with harvesting kale properly, which can lead to a less bountiful crop. In this article, we will provide you with tips and tricks on how to harvest kale like a pro.

1. Timing is Everything

The first and most important step in harvesting kale is timing. You want to wait until the leaves are large enough to harvest, but not too old or tough. The ideal time to harvest kale is when the leaves are about the size of your hand. This is usually around 60 days after planting.

If you wait too long to harvest kale, the leaves will become tough and bitter. On the other hand, if you harvest the leaves too early, the plant may not have had enough time to grow and produce more leaves.

2. Use the Right Tools

When harvesting kale, you want to use the right tools to avoid damaging the plant. A sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears works best for cutting the leaves off the plant without damaging the stem.

You should also have a clean and sturdy container to hold the harvested leaves. Avoid using plastic bags, as they can cause the leaves to wilt and spoil faster.

3. Cut the Leaves Properly

To harvest kale properly, you want to cut the leaves off the stem at an angle, leaving about two inches of stem attached to the plant. This will allow the plant to continue growing and producing more leaves.

It's important to avoid cutting the stem too close to the base of the plant, as this can damage the plant and prevent future growth.

4. Harvest the Outer Leaves First

When harvesting kale, it's best to start with the outer leaves first. These are typically the oldest and largest leaves on the plant and are ready for harvest. By removing the outer leaves first, you give the younger leaves more room to grow and mature.

Continue harvesting the outer leaves every few weeks, leaving the smaller, inner leaves to continue growing.

Harvesting Kale

5. Store the Leaves Properly

After harvesting kale, it's important to store the leaves properly to ensure their freshness and flavor. Rinse the leaves under cold water to remove any dirt or debris, then pat them dry with a towel or paper towel.

You can store kale leaves in the refrigerator for up to a week by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and placing them in a plastic bag or container. Alternatively, you can freeze kale leaves for later use by blanching them for 2-3 minutes in boiling water, then plunging them into an ice bath to stop the cooking process.

Storing Kale

6. Enjoy Your Harvested Kale

Now that you know how to harvest kale properly, it's time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Kale can be eaten raw or cooked and can be used in a variety of dishes, including salads, smoothies, soups, and stir-fries.

Not only is kale delicious and versatile, but it's also packed with essential nutrients that can benefit your health. So go ahead and enjoy your freshly harvested kale!

Kale, gardening, healthy eating, superfoods, vegetable gardening, sustainable living