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Ground prep for Kale

• Message 1. 

  Posted by cool_breeze_uk (U14359426) on Friday, 20th May 2011

  Hi, I intend to sow some dwarf curly kale in a couple of weeks time, only the designated area isn't ready yet and I'm still digging it over. The book says to grow in firm ground, spongy soil is a no no. I can't wait several months for the soil to naturally consolidate, so I thought at the end of the digging I'd just lay a plank down and jump on it a bit. My site is exposed on the north and east sides. Any thoughts? thanks

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• Message 2

  , in reply to message 1.

  Posted by Tee Gee (U10012255) on Friday, 20th May 2011

  Do you literally mean sow them direct?
  
  I find it is better to grow them on initially in a tray or pot, then prick them out into 3" pots then plant them as shown in this link!
  
  Growing in this manner means you can sow them and they will be growing on until such times as you have finished your preparation;
  
  
  
  Then when it comes to planting out there are many who would agree with what you suggest but I find watering them in (see pic10) has the same affect as months of weathering!
  
  
  
  My site is exposed my soil is quite light yet I don't have any problem with them keeling over in the wind!
  
  However the choice is yours!
  
  

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• Message 3

  , in reply to message 2.

  Posted by cool_breeze_uk (U14359426) on Friday, 20th May 2011

  Yes I was going to sow direct. Just following the packet instructions. I've sown squash direct this year as those raised under glass haven't transplanted well in the past. But I will gladly take the advice of a more experienced grower on this one, as I've not really grown brassicas before. I did try broccoli a couple of years ago but they didn't amount to much, probably didn't get enough water. Regarding liming, I thought that was done before the plants go in..?
  
  Many thanks Tee Gee.

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• Message 4

  , in reply to message 3.

  Posted by nooj (U13729031) on Friday, 20th May 2011

  I'm no expert but I've always found kale quite easy if started in pots inside
  Any attempts I have made at direct sowing have been slug munched very early on
  When it goes out I suggest a pigeon deterrent as well.
  Good news is that if you can keep the pests off it - it's really tough as old boots

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