Attractive, tasty leaves at a time of the year when little else is available.
Features: Very winter hardy and the colour intensifies after the first frost
Sowing Guide - Indoors: Sow indoors 0.5cm (¼”) deep, in a tray of compost. Water well and place in a cold frame or unheated greenhouse. Keep moist. Transplant 5cm (2”) apart to other trays when large enough to handle. Gradually accustom young plants to outside conditions before planting out.
Sowing Guide - Outdoors: Sow outdoors thinly in a seed bed, 1.5cm (½”) deep directly into finely prepared soil which has already been watered. Seedlings usually appear in 14-21 days. Water well until plants are established. Transplant 45cm (18”) apart when seedlings are about 10cm (4”) tall. In rows 45cm (18”) apart. Plant firmly and water well.
Soil Type: Well cultivated, fertile soil
Hints & Tips: To use larger leaves, strip them from the mid-rib and stem, they can then be used as a substitute for cabbage. Smaller leaves can be steamed whole or use baby leaves in salads.
