Interested in growing Lacinato Kale in Maryland? You’re in the right place! In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about planting and growing this delicious and nutritious leafy green in the beautiful state of Maryland.
Climate & Hardiness Zones in Maryland
Before we dive into the specifics of growing Lacinato Kale in Maryland, it’s essential to understand the climate and hardiness zones in the area. Maryland is located in USDA hardiness zones 6, 7, and 8, depending on the region.
The state experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild to cool winters. These weather conditions make it suitable for growing a variety of crops, including Lacinato Kale.
[Source: Maryland Department of Agriculture]
Hardiness zones play a crucial role in determining which plants can thrive in a particular region. In Maryland, gardeners can take advantage of the diverse hardiness zones to cultivate a wide range of fruits, vegetables, and flowers. Zone 6 covers the western part of the state, including areas like Garrett County, where temperatures can drop as low as -10°F (-23°C) in winter. On the other hand, zone 8 encompasses the southern coastal regions, such as St. Mary’s County, with milder winter temperatures that rarely dip below 10°F (-12°C).
Understanding the climate of Maryland is key to successful gardening. The state’s humid subtropical climate brings hot and humid summers, ideal for heat-loving crops like tomatoes and peppers. In contrast, the mild to cool winters offer a perfect environment for cold-hardy vegetables such as kale, spinach, and Brussels sprouts. Maryland’s climate diversity allows for a long growing season, providing ample opportunities for gardeners to experiment with different crops throughout the year.
When to Plant Lacinato Kale in Maryland
If you’re wondering when to get your Lacinato Kale plants in the ground, late winter or early spring is the best time. Aim for a planting date around March or April, when the soil temperatures have warmed up and the last frost has passed.
It’s important to note that Lacinato Kale is a cold-hardy plant, so you can also start planting in late fall for a winter crop. If you choose this option, make sure to protect your plants from harsh frosts with row covers or a cold frame.
[Source: University of Maryland Extension]
Planting Lacinato Kale from Seeds
If you’re starting from seeds, you can begin by sowing them indoors 6-8 weeks before your intended planting date. Use a seed starting mix and sow the seeds about half an inch deep. Keep the soil moist but not soggy, and provide sufficient light for healthy seedling growth.
Once the seedlings have grown to around 2-3 inches tall and have a few true leaves, you can transplant them into your garden or containers. Make sure to space them about 12-18 inches apart to allow for proper growth.
Planting Lacinato Kale from Seedlings
If you opt for seedlings instead, you can find them at local nurseries or garden centers. When you’re ready to plant, prepare your garden bed by loosening the soil and incorporating some organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
Dig holes that are slightly larger than the root ball of the seedlings and place them in the holes. Gently backfill with soil, firming it around the base of the plants. Water thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil.
Now that you have a good understanding of when to plant Lacinato Kale in Maryland and how to do it from seeds or seedlings, let’s delve into some additional tips to ensure a successful kale-growing experience.
First, it’s important to choose a sunny spot in your garden for your kale plants. Lacinato Kale thrives in full sun, which means it needs at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. This will help your plants grow strong and healthy, producing delicious and nutritious leaves.
Second, consider adding some organic fertilizer to your soil before planting. Kale is a heavy feeder, meaning it requires a lot of nutrients to grow well. By enriching the soil with compost or well-rotted manure, you’ll provide your kale plants with the essential nutrients they need for optimal growth.
Lastly, don’t forget to water your kale plants regularly. While kale is relatively drought-tolerant, it still needs consistent moisture to thrive. Aim to keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged, throughout the growing season. Mulching around the plants can help retain moisture and suppress weed growth.
By following these additional tips, you’ll be well on your way to growing a bountiful harvest of Lacinato Kale in Maryland. Enjoy the process and the nutritious rewards of your homegrown kale!
When to Harvest or Pick Lacinato Kale in Maryland
The time to harvest your Lacinato Kale plants depends on your preferred use and the growing conditions. Lacinato Kale is a versatile crop, and you can start harvesting the outer leaves as soon as they reach a desirable size.
For most tender and flavorful leaves, aim to harvest Lacinato Kale before the warm summer weather arrives. This will help prevent the leaves from becoming tough and bitter. You can continue to harvest the leaves throughout the growing season, allowing the plant to regrow between harvests.
It’s important to monitor your Lacinato Kale regularly to ensure you harvest at the right time. Look for leaves that are dark green and firm, avoiding any yellowing or wilting. By harvesting the outer leaves first, you encourage new growth from the center of the plant, extending your harvest period.
How to Harvest Lacinato Kale
- Use a sharp pair of garden shears or scissors to cut the leaves off the stem just above the soil level.
- Collect the leaves in a basket or container, taking care not to damage the surrounding foliage.
- Rinse the harvested leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
- Store the washed leaves in the refrigerator or use them immediately in your favorite dishes.
When harvesting Lacinato Kale, it’s best to do so in the morning when the leaves are crisp and full of moisture. This not only ensures better flavor but also helps the leaves stay fresh for longer once harvested. Remember to harvest only what you need, as freshly picked kale has the best taste and nutritional value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Now, let’s address some common questions regarding growing Lacinato Kale in Maryland.
Q: Can Lacinato Kale tolerate hot summers in Maryland?
A: While Lacinato Kale is more cold-tolerant than other kale varieties, it can struggle in the heat of Maryland summers. Providing partial shade with row covers or shade cloth can help protect the leaves from wilting and bolting prematurely.
Q: How often should I water Lacinato Kale?
A: Lacinato Kale prefers consistently moist soil. Water your plants deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry, aiming for about 1-1.5 inches of water per week.
Q: Are there any pests or diseases that commonly affect Lacinato Kale in Maryland?
A: Lacinato Kale can be susceptible to pests such as cabbage worms, aphids, and flea beetles. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of infestation and take appropriate measures, such as handpicking pests or using organic pest control methods.
Q: Can I grow Lacinato Kale in containers?
A: Absolutely! Lacinato Kale can be successfully grown in containers as long as you provide a large enough pot (at least 12 inches deep) and ensure good drainage. Place your containers in a sunny spot and water regularly to keep the soil moist.
Now you’re equipped with all the information you need to start growing your own delicious Lacinato Kale in Maryland. Enjoy a bountiful harvest of this nutritious green and savor its unique flavor in your favorite recipes. Happy gardening!
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