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Post by ottawagardener on Aug 16, 2010 9:58:18 GMT -5
In preparation for my move, I'd like to propogate my sea kale. What is the best way to go about this? I have heard of people making heel and root cuttings.
Thank you in advance.
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Post by garnetmoth on Aug 16, 2010 19:29:58 GMT -5
OT Sorry in advance!
I have read about this vegetable, how does it taste?
I hope you have great success, I have read that it takes 3 years to produce from seed....
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Post by ottawagardener on Aug 16, 2010 21:49:01 GMT -5
I haven't used the blanched shoots which is the traditional use as far as I understand but do use the leaves sparingly and they are like a tough, but fairly mild tasting kale. My kids actually eat bits raw! I have also used the flowerbuds sparingly and they are good - broccoli like.
I have two varieties so far. One is the species and it is gorgeous in the spring with its big, purple leaves. The other is 'Lily White' which I started from seed. It is now three years old and I could have harvested the shoots this year. I agree that it is probably best to wait until then. Unfortunately, I did not get any viable seed this year.
When I get a moment, I"ll post pictures.
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Post by stevil on Aug 17, 2010 5:58:45 GMT -5
The root cuttings are called thongs. The following link explains how: www.gardenzone.info/crops/seakale.php(I lost my Lily White last winter, so thanks for the reminder, must try to get a replacement) |
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Post by ottawagardener on Aug 17, 2010 8:38:15 GMT -5
I can try to get you a root bundle (thanks for the tutorial) this fall if you like!
Telsing
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Post by stevil on Aug 18, 2010 2:19:47 GMT -5
Thanks, yes please if you have to spare  |
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Post by heidihi on Aug 18, 2010 10:04:04 GMT -5
I grew sea kale for the first time this year ..I have some lily white but have never seen the purple ..looking forward to a pic!
mine are in planter pots can I transplant them into a garden bed when should I do that?
do you mulch up around them for the winter? or will they be ok you think?
sorry to butt in but I am so excited about growing this!
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Post by ottawagardener on Aug 18, 2010 14:36:54 GMT -5
Here is a picture of the species seakale in late spring with some rockcress in bloom. The leaves start out a bright purple and then become more bluish:  Species seakale about to flower. I love the multitoned buds.  The lily white is at the front of this photo. You can see the difference in the leaf colour:  |
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