Kale, a highly nutritious leafy green, has become a favorite in many gardens due to its versatility and health benefits. Properly pruning kale plants is a valuable practice that supports their overall well-being and productivity. This simple gardening technique can significantly impact how much kale you harvest and how long your plants remain productive in the garden. By understanding and applying pruning methods, gardeners can ensure a steady supply of fresh, tender leaves.
Why Prune Kale
Pruning kale offers several advantages. Regularly removing older leaves directs the plant’s energy toward developing new, tender growth at its center. This encourages the plant to produce more leaves over time, extending its productive life.
Removing lower, older leaves also improves air circulation, which helps reduce humidity and can lower the risk of fungal diseases. Pruning can deter pests, as they often target older, more vulnerable leaves. This allows the plant to focus resources on healthier foliage.
When to Prune Kale
Pruning kale begins once the plant is established and has developed a healthy set of leaves. Many gardeners start harvesting when plants reach about 8-10 inches in height, or when the outer leaves are roughly hand-sized. This signals the plant to continue producing new growth.
Kale can be harvested continuously throughout its growing season. Prune and harvest leaves every 1-2 weeks, or as new leaves mature. Signs it’s time to prune include yellowing leaves, leaves with holes, or damaged foliage, as removing these helps maintain plant health.
How to Prune Kale
Pruning kale involves selecting the right leaves and making clean cuts to promote continued growth. Always use clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors to ensure precise cuts that heal quickly and reduce disease risk. Dull tools can damage plant tissues, leaving jagged edges susceptible to issues.
Focus on harvesting the older, larger outer leaves first, as kale grows from the center outwards. Cut the leaf stems close to the main stalk of the plant, just above the leaf axil, leaving about 2 inches of stem attached if desired. Avoid pulling leaves forcefully, which can loosen the plant from the soil.
Avoid over-pruning; do not remove more than one-third of the plant’s leaves at a time. Always leave the central growing point, or crown, intact, along with at least four to six healthy leaves, to ensure continuous leaf production and allow for photosynthesis. This encourages new leaves to emerge from the plant’s core.
Post-Pruning Care
After pruning, adequate care helps kale plants recover and encourages new growth. Ensure consistent watering, especially during dry periods, as proper hydration supports plant vigor. Once established, water regularly based on your climate.
While kale is not a heavy feeder, a balanced liquid fertilizer can be applied if the plant shows signs of nutrient deficiency or if growing in containers, where nutrients deplete faster. Adding a fresh layer of compost around the base of the plant provides a slow release of nutrients and supports growth. Regularly monitor the plant for new growth, stress, pests, or disease, addressing issues promptly to maintain health.