COLLARD GREEN Seeds, Vates

Vates Collard Greens (Brassica oleracea 'Vates') is an heirloom, open-pollinated collard valued for its compact, non-heading plants and cold-hardy, slow-bolting habit. It produces tender blue-green leaves over a long season.

At a glance

• Botanical name: Brassica oleracea 'Vates'
• Type: Heirloom, open-pollinated collard
• Plant height: 18 to 36 inches, non-heading
• Sun: Full sun to partial shade (4 to 6 hours)
• Soil: Fertile, well-drained, organic-rich

Best for

• Southern-style braised greens
• Soups and stews
• Saute and stir-fry
• Fall and overwintering gardens

How to grow

Sow in spring or late summer in fertile soil and full sun to partial shade. Keep moisture consistent to keep leaves tender and sweet. Vates is compact and slow to bolt, making it dependable in both heat and cold. Pick outer leaves for a long, cut-and-come-again harvest, and expect the sweetest flavor after frost.

Flavor profile

Mild, hearty, and earthy with tender leaves that grow sweeter after cool weather.

About 99Heirlooms

99Heirlooms is a seed company devoted to heirloom and open-pollinated varieties, giving home gardeners dependable seeds with the character and heritage of generations past.

Sold by 99Heirlooms.com, based in Saint Paul, Minnesota.