Guide on Cultivating and Nurturing Tree Cabbages
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Tree collards, also known as Tree Kale, Kale Tree, or Tree Cabbage, are a fascinating addition to any garden. This perennial or partial perennial, botanically known as Brassica oleracea acephala, is not only easy to grow but also offers a wealth of nutritious greens year-round.
Growth Conditions
Tree collards thrive in mild to moderate climates, surviving winter temperatures as low as 10-20°F. They are frost-tolerant, often improving in flavor after frost exposure, making them suitable for year-round growth in mild climates above 20°F. In colder zones, they may require winter protection like row covers or hoop houses.
The ideal planting time for tree collards is when soil temperatures are between 55-75°F, about 6-8 weeks before the last frost for spring planting, or mid-June to mid-July for a fall crop. They can also be propagated by cuttings stuck directly into moist soil, making them easy to grow perennially.
Tree collards prefer full sun to promote vigorous growth and healthy leaves. Well-drained, fertile soil enriched with organic matter is ideal, with good moisture retention but avoiding waterlogging.
Cultivation and Care
Spacing between plants and rows should be approximately 18-24 inches to allow good air circulation and room to grow. Newly propagated cuttings need to stay moist for the initial weeks to root successfully. Keep the soil consistently moist but avoid standing water.
Pruning tree collards should be done every few months at the first leaf axil to promote stronger branches and more leaf production. Container-grown tree collards should be repotted every year or two with a good potting soil.
Varieties
There are several varieties of tree collards, each with its unique characteristics. For instance, 'Taunton Deane Kale' has leaves that are silvery green with purple ribs and can grow up to 20cm long. 'Purple Tree Collard' turns even darker purple in winter and can grow up to 3.66m tall. 'Daubenton Kale Panache' is a variegated cultivar that produces a small, compact bush. 'Merritt Tree Collard' can achieve 2m at maturity with 61cm long leaves.
Harvest and Nutrition
Leaves can be harvested at any stage after about 2 months from planting. Never take more than a third of the foliage during harvest. The young leaves of tree collards are the sweetest, but all the foliage can be eaten.
Tree collards offer the flavour and nutrients of kale, collards, and cabbage. They are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and iron.
In summary, tree collards prefer full sun, fertile well-drained soil, consistent moisture, and mild to moderate climates where they tolerate frost and can grow perennially from cuttings or seed. They are robust, nutritious, and can provide greens year-round under suitable conditions.
Incorporating tree collards into your home-and-garden could revitalize your lifestyle by offering year-round, nutritious greens. After finding success with growing these fascinating perennials in your garden, consider expanding your home-and-garden repertoire by exploring home gardening techniques for other home-grown produce.
