KALE Seeds, Vates Blue Curled

Vates Blue Curled Kale (Brassica oleracea 'Vates Blue Curled') is an heirloom, open-pollinated kale with compact, finely curled blue-green leaves. Cold-hardy and slow to bolt, it is a dependable producer of tender, nutritious greens.

At a glance

• Botanical name: Brassica oleracea 'Vates Blue Curled'
• Type: Heirloom, open-pollinated kale
• Plant height: 12 to 18 inches
• Sun: Full to partial sun (4 to 6 hours)
• Soil: Nutrient-rich, well-drained
• Temperature: Cool-season, 60 to 75F

Best for

• Salads and slaws
• Saute and soups
• Kale chips
• Spring, fall, and overwintering gardens

How to grow

Sow in early spring or late summer in nutrient-rich, well-drained soil and full to partial sun. Keep moisture consistent for tender, curled leaves. Harvest outer leaves as they reach usable size, leaving the center to keep producing. Compact and cold-hardy, Vates sweetens after frost.

Flavor profile

Mild and earthy with tender, curly leaves that hold dressings well and sweeten in 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.