Champion Collards: Bolt-Resistant Powerhouse for Extended Harvests
Champion Collards are a highly productive and compact variety known for their rich blue-green, cabbage-like leaves. This improved Vates-type collard reaches maturity in just 70 days, offering gardeners a quick and bountiful harvest. Developed and introduced by the Virginia Agricultural Experiment Station in 1979, Champion stands out for its exceptional bolt resistance, allowing for an extended growing season and prolonged harvests.
These collards excel in versatility and nutrition, making them a staple in many cuisines. The waxy leaf surface provides natural protection against cabbage worms, reducing the need for pesticides. Champion’s compact habit, growing to a height of 24-36 inches, makes it suitable for both small gardens and larger plots. The rich, flavorful leaves are perfect for traditional southern dishes, modern salads, and as a nutritious addition to smoothies and juices.
Champion Collards thrive in cool weather, making them ideal for spring and fall planting. Their cold tolerance allows them to withstand light frosts, often improving flavor with exposure to cold. These plants are widely adapted to various growing regions across the United States, demonstrating excellent hardiness and productivity. For a continuous harvest, sow seeds every few weeks throughout the growing season.
Growing Success Tips:
- Plant in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5
- Provide full sun exposure, ideally 6-8 hours daily
- Water consistently, aiming for 1-2 inches per week
- Harvest outer leaves regularly to encourage continued production
Champion Collards offer an exceptional combination of flavor, nutrition, and garden performance. Their bolt resistance and extended harvest period make them a valuable addition to any vegetable garden, ensuring a steady supply of nutritious greens throughout the season.
For sweeter leaves, wait to harvest until after the first frost in fall.
Product Features
- Bolt-resistant variety
- Compact growth habit (24-36 inches tall)
- Blue-green, cabbage-like leaves
- Waxy leaf surface for natural pest resistance
- Days to maturity: 70
- Spacing: 18-24 inches apart
- Soil pH: 6.0-7.5
- Temperature range: 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C)
- Water requirements: 1-2 inches weekly
Key Benefits
- Extended harvest period due to bolt resistance
- Versatile for various culinary applications
- High in vitamins K, A, C, and calcium
- Suitable for both small and large gardens
