It is well known that kale is harvested in winter. But when is the best time to harvest kale? Should the kale get one frost, or should it be several? Find out here!

Kale is harvested from October

Kale needs frost - but why?

Kale is usually harvested after the first frost. It is said that it is then less bitter. That's true, but why? It is widely believed that kale converts bitter substances into sugar. But this is not the case. The kale forms bitter substances to defend itself against predators. If it freezes or is quite cold for a long period of time (temperatures above freezing point are often sufficient), it ceases this activity, but continues to produce fructose through photosynthesis.

Harvest kale after several frosts

Therefore, kale can be harvested not only after the first frost, but also after several. The longer you wait, the lower the bitterness and the higher the fructose content.

simulate frost

Your kale has numerous lush green leaves and it just won't freeze and freeze? On the Internet you will find that briefly storing it in the freezer compartment can help here. Unfortunately we have to disappoint you. The metabolic processes only work with live kale and can therefore not be made up for with harvested kale.

Harvest kale throughout the winter

Kale is harvested three to five months after sowing. The harvest time for kale usually begins in October and can last into February - as long as you harvest correctly: Only ever harvest the outer leaves of kale, because it will continue to grow happily if you give it the opportunity. In the second year it also forms yellow flowers, the seeds of which you can use for propagation.

tips

Find out here how to store your kale correctly so that it stays fresh for a long time.

Category:

Vegetable garden