Champion Collard

Collard, sometimes known as wild or non-heading cabbage, probably originated in Asia Minor and the Mediterranean region. Europe eventually became familiar with this vegetable, though historians disagree as to whether it was introduced there by the Romans or the Celts. Collard became a valuable part of the traditional cuisine of the American South through the slave trade, when the slaves began preparing this inexpensive vegetable with scraps of meat for flavoring. This unique vegetable has become a unique symbol of Southern culture and tradition.

Sowing: For a spring crop, direct sow the seeds 6-8 weeks before the last spring frost. For a fall crop, direct sow the seeds 6-8 weeks before the first fall frost. For smaller plants, plant a few seeds every 12″ and1/4 deep; later remove all but the strongest plant. If you need bigger plants, space them 2′ apart. For companion planting benefits, plant collards with tomatoes.

Growing: Water regularly, and provide compost or organic fertilizer several times in the summer. Collards tolerate heat very well.

Harvesting: Begin gathering leaves when the plant reaches 10-12″ high; take the outer leaves first. Eventually your plant will begin to resemble a tree, with all the leaves on the top of the stalk; at this point it may need the support of a stake. A spring crop of collards usually comes an end in the hot weather of summer, while a fall crop will produce well after frost. Frost actually makes the flavor of collards much sweeter.

Seed Saving: Allow the plant to flower and go to seed. The pods will look somewhat like small green beans. After the pods dry and the seeds inside are dark brown, remove them from the plant and dry them completely indoors. Clean off as much chaff as possible, then store the seeds in a cool, dry place.

Latin Name: Brassica oleracea

Type: Open Pollinated, Cool Season

USDA Zones: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

Seeds per Ounce: 8,000

Planting Method: From Transplant

Sunlight: Full Sun

Height: 32 Inches

Color: Green