Crane Feather Queen Red – Kale Seed

Novel ornamental kale with serrated leaves.
Extend the flower production season with ornamental kale. The Crane series is consistent, uniform, and provides a range of rich colors and textures for autumn bouquets. Crane Feather Queen Red has bright magenta centers surrounded by green outer leaves. Also known as flowering kale and ornamental cabbage. Ht. 24-36". Avg. 7,700 seeds/oz. Packet: 25 seeds.

DAYS TO GERMINATION: 10-14 days at 70°F (21°C).

SOWING: Transplant (recommended): Sow directly in cell packs 4-6 weeks before planting outside. Cover seed with 1/4" of soil. After germination, grow seedlings at 60°F (21°C) for 3-4 weeks. Harden off one week before planting outside. Plants must be set out several weeks before the first fall frost. Direct seed: Sow 3 months before expected fall frost, 2 seeds per hole, 6" apart and 1/4" deep. Thin to one plant per hole.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS: Once plants are about 10-12" tall, remove the lower leaves. Repeat 3 or 4 times as the plants grow taller. Use Hortonova (horizontal trellis) to prevent the plants from falling over, as they become top heavy.

LIGHT PREFERENCE: Sun.

SOIL REQUIREMENTS: Moist, well-drained soil. Discontinue fertilizer once plants begin to color.

PLANT SPACING: 6". Plants spaced more than 6" will produce heads that are too large for cut flower use.

HARDINESS ZONES: Annual.

HARVEST: Kale should have a 6" head on a 24" stem with good coloring. Plants will begin to color once temps. drop below 50°F.

USES: Long-lasting cut flower.

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Brassica oleracea