All Stars Kale

From Hudson Valley Seed Company. Purchased in 2023.

Description and growing instructions below from Hudson Valley Seeds.

Mix of Russian and Siberian kales in shades of green and red.

Innovative plant breeder Tim Peters developed this mix, originally called Gulag Stars, by blending Brassica napus kale varieties (Russian kales) with shinier Brassica rapa varieties (mustards and Asian Greens) using a method known as bud pollinating. Almost like astral projection, this allows two related but separate species to be swirled together. The result is this delightful mix, a blend of kales with shapes, colors, textures, and sizes that vary from plant to plant like colorful star-forming nebulae

The flavor of this kale similar to other Russian kales, a bit sharper than Dino Kale or Vates Blue Curled Kale. Plant this variety if you enjoy the flavor of Asian greens, but long for something more substantial and longer lasting in the garden. Makes a great baby leaf for salads. It's also a great variety for the budding breeder or seed saver. Kale is a biennial; grow the plants in year one, overwinter the ones you like, and save the seeds in the second year.

GROWING INSTRUCTIONS.

Direct sow kale about a month before last frost. Alternatively, sow under protection 8 weeks earlier, then transplant about a month before last frost. For a young, tender fall crop, sow 3-4 months before first fall frost. Avoid planting at edge of garden, as slugs love kale and will creep in for nightly dining. Harvest a handful of individual outer leaves from each plant; mature plants will be ready for another harvest in a few days.