Monty Don has advised gardeners to sow kale in early September to secure autumn leaves, noting that the hardy crop can also provide harvests through winter and into spring.
As September arrives, the shift to autumnal gardening tasks and the lengthy list of preparations for colder months can feel daunting for British gardeners. Fortunately, Monty Don has provided a definitive guide to everything that needs tackling, including one robust vegetable that can be sown right now and makes an iron-rich addition to any dish.
Best time for hardy vegetables
On his website, Monty states that September is the ideal time for planting hardy vegetables such as kale, spinach and Cavelo Nero. These are described as "hardy" crops that grow "best in mild weather" and will "quickly germinate and establish if sown in early September, to provide young leaves in Autumn."
If planted this week, kale will develop into an overwintering crop, ready for harvesting from autumn through to late spring. By that point, the spring-sown variety of kale will also have had ample time to establish itself.
Planting instructions
Monty has provided straightforward planting instructions, according to Gardener's World, as reported by the Express. He advises sowing seeds half an inch (1 cm to 1.3 cm) deep either in a dedicated seed bed or in small pots or trays.
Once the young plants reach a few inches in height and have developed 6 to 8 sturdy leaves, they should be transferred to their permanent growing positions. Space them approximately 18 inches (45 cm) apart to allow sufficient room to mature.
When planting young kale, press the soil firmly around the base and compact the earth underfoot. Monty advises that this step, despite appearing unusual, keeps the plants stable and protected against harsh winter winds.
Varieties and protection
For those seeking a reliable option, "Cavalo Nero," "Jagallo Nero," and "Red Russian" are varieties that flourish in cold conditions and continue to yield fresh harvests well into spring. Regardless of how hardy the plants are, they should be covered with fine mesh netting to shield them from pigeons and cabbage white butterflies.
Monty said: "To keep the succession of vegetables going... [plant] out kale 'Jagallo Nero'... That way [you] will have an ample supply of fresh greens throughout the winter and on into next spring."
The Red Russian variety in particular offers both visual appeal and exceptional value. Monty said: "These young plants, all raised from seed, will look good all winter long and provide delicious harvests in spring."
