Kale and Collard Greens

Have you been wondering what to grow this upcoming Fall season? Leafy greens are often the best solution to your worries. They LOVE the cool weather.  Not only are kale and collard greens a favorite among us North Carolinians (and most southerners for that matter), they are also packed with tons of nutrients and can be prepared a variety of ways. We guarantee you won't get bored with the excess your kale and collards are producing!

Kale, often called the "Queen of Greens," is one of the healthiest vegetables you can eat. It grows best in well drained, fertile soil that is high in organic matter.  Kale can suffer a little bit of drought, but typically prefers plentiful and consistent moisture. For more information on growing, harvesting, purchasing, and preparing kale, visit the NC State Cooperative Extension webpage found here.

As for collard greens, these guys will grow in a loose bouquet. Although, like kale, they prefer to grow in well drained, fertile soil, they are a bit more flexible. Collards can also withstand a little frost and light light freezes. This makes them a great crop to grow here in the High Country. For more information on how to deal with your rapidly growing collards, visit the NC State Cooperative Extension webpage found here.