Kale Seeds 'Midnight Sun' - Marshalls Garden - 25 Seeds
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Kale Seeds 'Midnight Sun' are for home gardeners seeking an ornamental and flavorful kale variety that thrives in cooler weather. The key benefit is its striking appearance with red-tinted, frilly leaves and neon-pink midribs, alongside excellent taste for salads and stir-fries. A caveat is that it requires adequate space to grow to its mature size of 750mm, though it's also excellent for baby leaf harvesting. This product offers approximately 25 seeds of a nutritious and visually appealing kale.
All features
| Model Part Number | 10204212 |
|---|---|
| Brand | Marshalls Garden |
Extended Product Information
FAQs
How long does it take for 'Midnight Sun' kale to mature?
As baby leaf, it can be harvested in as little as 4-6 weeks. For mature plants, expect to harvest in about 8-10 weeks after sowing.
Can 'Midnight Sun' kale be grown in containers?
Yes, its mature height of around 750 mm makes it well-suited for growing in pots, patios, and raised beds, provided the containers are deep enough for root development.
Is this variety frost-tolerant?
Kale, in general, is quite frost-tolerant and often the flavor improves after a light frost. This variety is suitable for winter harvest.
What is the best way to harvest 'Midnight Sun' kale?
For baby leaves, snip them off near the base. For mature plants, harvest the outer leaves first, allowing the inner leaves to continue growing. This encourages a longer harvest period.
How many seeds are in a pack?
Each pack contains approximately 25 seeds.
Can I eat the pink midribs?
Yes, the neon-pink midribs are edible and contribute to the unique flavor and visual appeal of the kale.
Troubleshooting
Seeds not germinating
Ensure seeds are planted at the correct depth and the soil is kept consistently moist. Check for optimal soil temperature (ideally between 10-20°C).
Plants are leggy or weak
Provide more sunlight, ensure adequate soil nutrients, and check for proper watering. Avoid overcrowding.
Leaves have holes or are being eaten
Identify and remove common pests like cabbage worms, slugs, or aphids. Consider using physical barriers or organic pest control methods.
Yellowing leaves
This can indicate overwatering, underwatering, or nutrient deficiency. Check soil moisture and consider a balanced fertilizer if necessary.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Striking visual appeal with unique red and pink coloration.
- Superior flavor profile compared to many other kale varieties.
- High nutritional content, rich in essential vitamins and antioxidants.
- Adaptable for both ornamental garden display and culinary use.
- Suitable for container gardening and small spaces.
- Extends harvest season into winter.
Cons
- Requires space for mature plants (up to 750mm height).
- Seed count is approximate and may vary.
- As with any vegetable, susceptible to common garden pests and diseases.
- Requires adequate sunlight for best growth and color development.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Sowing:
Sow seeds directly into well-drained soil after the last frost or start indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date. Plant seeds about 1 cm deep.
Spacing:
For mature plants, allow 30-45 cm between plants. For baby leaf, you can sow more densely.
Location:
Choose a sunny location. Kale prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially in hotter climates. Ensure the soil is fertile and rich in organic matter.
Watering:
Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods. Water at the base of the plant to prevent fungal diseases.
Care:
Amend soil with compost before planting. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Protect young seedlings from pests. Harvest outer leaves regularly to encourage continuous growth.