Kale, Vates

Kale, Vates is a cold-hardy leafy green prized for its tender, deeply curled foliage and mild flavor. This cultivar thrives in full sun to partial shade, requiring at least 4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and nutrient density.

Kale prefers well-draining, fertile soil rich in organic matter with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. It tolerates cooler temperatures and actually improves in flavor after a light frost.

Not native to North America, Kale originates from the Mediterranean and northern Europe, where it has been cultivated for centuries. While not a native species, it supports local pollinators and beneficial insects when allowed to flower.

Humans have long valued Kale as a nutritious food crop, packed with vitamins A, C, and K, calcium, and antioxidants. It's versatile in the kitchen—raw in salads, sautéed as a side dish, blended into smoothies, or added to soups and stews. Home gardeners appreciate its productivity, cold tolerance, and ability to produce multiple harvests throughout the growing season.