Lacinato Kale

Lacinato Kale is a much-loved Italian heirloom known for its striking blue-green, deeply textured leaves and exceptional sweet, earthy flavour. Also called dinosaur kale or Tuscan kale, it produces long, firm leaves that are ideal in raw salads, soups, pastas and stir fries. Its upright growth makes for easy harvesting, and the plants are both vigorous and resilient. This variety holds up well in colder weather and can be harvested well into the winter in temperate coastal gardens.

Where Can You Grow Lacinato Kale?
Lacinato Kale thrives in Zones 3-9 and prefers full sun and well-drained, fertile soil. It grows well in garden beds and containers and can be succession planted for a continual harvest throughout the growing season.

History and Historical Uses
Originating from Italy, Lacinato has been cultivated for centuries in home and market gardens. It is a traditional staple of Italian cuisine, featuring prominently in dishes like ribollita and minestrone. Its popularity has spread globally due to its texture, flavour, and hardiness, making it one of the most commonly grown kale varieties today.

Canadian Zone Information
Zones 8-9: Direct sow in early spring or late summer for fall and winter harvest.
Zones 5-7: Sow outdoors in spring and again in late summer for a second crop.
Zones 3-4: Start seeds indoors and transplant after frost; mulch well for fall harvest.

How to Grow and Harvest Lacinato Kale

Planting: Sow seeds 1cm (½in) deep and thin to 30cm (12in) apart once established.
Watering: Keep soil moist but not soggy; mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Harvesting: Harvest outer leaves as needed, allowing the plant to continue producing.
Maintenance: Remove yellowing leaves and check for aphids or cabbage moths.

Seed Saving Tips for Future Supply

Overwinter Plants: In mild climates, leave plants in the ground to flower the next year.
Isolate Varieties: If saving multiple kale varieties, isolate by 800m (½ mile) to prevent cross-pollination.
Harvest Seeds: Allow pods to dry on the plant, then collect and thresh.
Store: Clean and store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Viable for 4-5 years.

Certified Organic By
Islands Organics Producers Association (Cert#1962)