Undoubtedly the most common type of kale, curly kale has tight, curly edges and a bitter, peppery flavor. The color can range from light-dark green to blue-green leaves to purple colored kale. It is also super versatile, as it can be blanched, boiled, roasted, steamed, or eaten raw.

Before Planting: Kale prefers a fertile, well-drained soil. Ideal pH is 7.0. Keep soil consistently moist for best quality leaves.

Watering: Water regularly to keep the soil moist, as this keeps the leaves crisp and sweet.

Fertilizer: Upon planting the seeds, fertilize with a 5-10-10 fertilizer. Mix 1 ó cups of fertilizer with the top 3 to 4 inches of soil for a 25-foot row of kale. Throughout its growing season, you can fertilize kale with a side dressing of compost every six to eight weeks.

Days to Maturity: Kale can be grown to its full size or harvested when the leaves are small and tender. Kale is ready to harvest when its leaves are the size of your hand. It usually takes up to 90 days for kale to be ready after planting it from seed.