Lacinato Kale Seeds (Organic)

Lacinato Kale, also known as Dino Kale or Tuscan Kale, is a favorite among gardeners and chefs for its rich flavor, tender texture, and striking appearance. This heirloom variety produces elongated, dark green leaves with a bumpy, almost reptilian texture, giving it the nickname "dinosaur kale." The mild, slightly sweet flavor makes it perfect for raw salads, sautéing, soups, and kale chips. Thriving in full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil, Lacinato Kale matures in 60-75 days and is incredibly cold-hardy, becoming sweeter after a light frost. The upright growth habit and compact footprint make it ideal for small gardens or raised beds. With regular harvesting, this kale produces a continuous crop throughout the growing season, ensuring a steady supply of nutrient-packed greens. Whether you’re looking for a visually striking addition to your garden or a versatile vegetable for your kitchen, Lacinato Kale delivers on all fronts. Easy to grow and highly productive, it’s a must-have for any vegetable gardener.

Kale - Lacinato - Brassica oleracea (Acephala group)

Biennial Heirloom. This kale is heavily savoyed (bumpy) with dark green, almost black, leaves. The strap-shaped leaves are not curly like regular kale, and add an interesting texture and color to salads. If using in soup, add kale at the end to avoid overcooking. This variety is a primitive, open kale traced to Tuscan origins.

Did You Know? Kale is a great source of vitamins A, C, and K, and minerals, containing twice the amount of vitamin C as an equivalent portion of orange juice and more calcium than milk!

Soil & Water: Kale will thrive in any moderately fertile soil with good drainage, organic matter, and a pH range of 5.5-6.5. It needs regular, even watering to avoid bitterness.

Planting & Growing: This variety grows well in both heat and cold and may survive winter. Start indoors 6 weeks before the last frost or seed directly as soon as the soil can be worked. Plant in mid-July for fall harvests.

Harvesting & Storage: Harvest young leaves for salads. Older leaves are best steamed or cooked. Flavor improves after light frost exposure.

Soil Temperature: 45-95°F
Planting Depth: 1/4"-1/2"
Germination: 5-18 Days
Height At Maturity: 24"
Days To Maturity: 62 Days
Sun/Shade: Partial Sun
Spacing After Thinning: 16"
Approx Seeds per Pack: 250 Seeds

Organic gardening enthusiasts often search for resilient, nutritious, and versatile crops. Among these, Lacinato kale, also known as Dinosaur kale or Tuscan kale, stands out as a favorite. Organic Lacinato kale seeds offer an excellent choice for gardeners aiming to cultivate a hardy and delicious leafy green. In this article, we'll delve into the unique characteristics of Lacinato kale, comparing it to other kale varieties in terms of appearance, taste, and growing benefits.

Appearance and Texture

Lacinato kale is easily distinguishable from other kale varieties due to its unique appearance. The leaves are dark green, almost black, and have a bumpy, savoyed texture reminiscent of dinosaur skin, hence the nickname "Dinosaur kale." The leaves are long and slender, typically growing up to 18 inches in length. Unlike curly kale, which has frilly, tightly curled leaves, Lacinato kale’s leaves are more streamlined and flat with a slight curl, making them easier to clean and prepare.

Taste and Culinary Uses

One of the standout features of Lacinato kale is its mild, slightly sweet flavor. Compared to the often bitter taste of curly kale, Lacinato kale offers a more palatable experience, even for those who are not typically fans of leafy greens. When cooked, the leaves become tender while retaining a pleasant chewiness, making them an excellent addition to soups, stews, and sautés. Raw Lacinato kale is a popular choice for salads and smoothies, where its texture and flavor can be fully appreciated without being overwhelming.

Nutritional Benefits

Lacinato kale is a powerhouse of nutrition. It is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and a good source of calcium, iron, and antioxidants. These nutrients support various aspects of health, including immune function, bone health, and inflammation reduction. Incorporating Lacinato kale into your diet can contribute to overall wellness, making it a valuable crop for health-conscious gardeners.

Growing Organic Lacinato Kale

Growing Lacinato kale from organic seeds offers several advantages. Organic seeds from Peaceful Valley Farm & Garden Supply ensure that you are starting your plants free from synthetic chemicals and genetically modified organisms. This aligns with sustainable gardening practices and promotes a healthier garden ecosystem.

Lacinato kale is a cold-hardy crop, capable of withstanding frost and even snow, making it ideal for fall and winter gardens. It prefers well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5 and thrives in full sun to partial shade. The plant's resilience and relatively low maintenance requirements make it suitable for both beginner and experienced gardeners.

Pest and Disease Resistance

One of the benefits of Lacinato kale is its natural resistance to common pests and diseases that often plague other leafy greens. However, it is still susceptible to aphids, cabbage worms, and flea beetles. Organic gardening methods such as crop rotation, companion planting, and the use of natural pest repellents can help manage these issues effectively.

Harvesting and Storage

Harvesting Lacinato kale is straightforward. Begin by picking the outer leaves when they are large enough to eat, allowing the center of the plant to continue producing. This method, known as "cut and come again," ensures a continuous supply of fresh greens. Once harvested, Lacinato kale can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, consider blanching and freezing the leaves.

Organic Lacinato kale seeds offer an excellent opportunity to grow a nutritious, flavorful, and visually appealing leafy green. Its unique appearance, mild taste, and robust nutritional profile make it a standout choice for any garden. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting, Lacinato kale can provide a bountiful and rewarding addition to your organic gardening endeavors.