It is common knowledge that kale is harvested in winter. But when is the best time to harvest kale? Should the kale get one frost or is it better several? Find out here!
When is the ideal harvest time for kale?
The best time to harvest kale is after the first frost as it is less bitter then. Kale can still be harvested even after several frosts, which means that the bitter substance content continues to decrease and the fructose content increases. The harvest season extends from October to February.
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 generally believed that kale converts bitter substances into sugar. But this is not the case. Kale produces bitter substances to defend itself against predators. If it freezes or is quite cold for a long period of time (temperatures above freezing are often sufficient), it stops this activity, but continues to produce fructose through photosynthesis.
Harvesting 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 bitter content and the higher the fructose content.
Simulate frost
Your kale has lots of juicy green leaves and it just doesn't freeze or freeze? You can find on the Internet that briefly storing them in the freezer compartment can help. Unfortunately we have to disappoint you. The metabolic processes only work with live kale and therefore cannot be replicated with harvested kale.
Harvest kale all winter long
Kale is harvested three to five months after sowing. The harvest time for kale usually begins in October and can last until February - as long as you harvest correctly: Always only harvest the outer leaves of the kale, because it will continue to grow happily if you give it the opportunity. In the second year it also produces yellow flowers, the seeds of which you can use for propagation.
Tip
Learn here how to properly store your kale so that it stays fresh for a long time.