Planting and Growing Guide for Collards (Brassica sp.)
Description
Collards a favorite source or greens for cooking as they are very easy to grow and so versatile. Collards come in many varieties. Choose those that are known to grow well in your locality. They are loose-leafed relatives of the other cabbage species. Collards are grown for their large, dark-colored leaves, which have a wide range of uses when eaten raw or cooked. They are heat and frost tolerant and so they are a good alternative kale and cabbage in tropical areas or over hot summers. However, they can bolt to seed in hot weather and they taste best when grown under cool condition. For best texture and flavor pick the leaves when they are young and tender; well before they get to their maximum size. The flavor of collards is boosted by frosts. Companion plants include Mint, Nasturtium, Onion, Onions, Chives, Tomato, Sage, Garlic, Bean, Lentils and Rosemary.
Planting Guide
Seed Depth: Grow in the ground or in seed trays. Plant seeds about 5-8 mm (1/4 inch) deep. Plant in rows about 35-45 cm (15 inches) apart.
Space between plants: Thin to 40-50 cm (24 inches) apart once the seedlings appear, or when transplanting.
Harvest Time: Harvest after 7-11 weeks, though small leaves can be picked earlier than this. Sow in small batches, every weeks or so, to provide a continuous harvest from garden bed to plate.
Hints:
- Grows best in full sun or half shade
- Grows best in rich, well-drained soil, containing plenty of organic matter
- Feed the plants regularly with fertiliser or compost to keep the plants growing vigorously
- Heat tolerant and so suitable as a summer crop in many areas
- Collards are frost tolerant and so can be grown all year round
- Water frequently in summer to prevent growth checks and wilting.
- Aphids and white butterfly caterpillars are the common pest. They are aosl prone to other things affecting cabbage type plants
Disclaimer: The PlantWhatWhen vegetable planting guide is only designed for use as a very general reference for home gardening purposes. It is not to be used for farming, markets or commercial activities of any kind whatsoever. We take absolutely no responsibility for the accuracy and adequacy of the information provided on this site. We recommend that you consider your local climate, weather patterns and conditions when deciding what and when to plant in your home garden. It's entirely your own decision. Happy Gardening and Best Wishes!