Lacinato Kale: Unlock the Power of Italy’s Finest ‘Dino’ Greens

Lacinato kale, affectionately known as ‘Dino’ kale, is a timeless Italian heirloom renowned for its deep blue, long, and narrow leaves. This variety matures in about 50 to 60 days, offering a continuous harvest when leaves are picked from the bottom up. Originating in Tuscany, Lacinato kale has been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries, celebrated for its high level of antioxidant carotenoids and unique, slightly sweet and earthy flavor.

Benefits

Lacinato kale is a nutritional powerhouse, rich in vitamins A, C, and K, along with minerals like calcium and iron. It’s perfect for boosting energy, supporting bone health, and enhancing immune function. Its versatility in the kitchen makes it a favorite for salads, soups, and sautéed dishes. The high antioxidant content helps combat oxidative stress, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.

Growing Details

Lacinato kale is a cool-season crop that thrives in well-draining, fertile soil with full sun to partial shade. It can be direct-seeded or transplanted, with ideal soil temperatures ranging from 55°F to 77°F (13°C to 25°C). Regular watering and occasional fertilization ensure robust growth. Harvesting from the bottom up encourages continuous leaf production throughout the growing season.

Growing Success Tips:

• Soil Preparation: Ensure soil is well-draining and enriched with compost for optimal growth.
• Sunlight: Provide at least 4 to 6 hours of sunlight per day for healthy development.
• Pest Control: Watch for leaf-eating caterpillars and use organic controls as needed.
• Harvest Technique: Pick leaves from the bottom up to promote continuous growth.

Value Statement

Incorporating Lacinato kale into your garden not only adds a touch of Italian heritage but also provides a bounty of nutritious greens year-round. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a culinary enthusiast, this variety is sure to delight.

For an extra boost, mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Product Features:

• Leaf Color: Deep blue-green
• Leaf Shape: Long and narrow
• Maturation Time: 50 to 60 days
• Growth Habit: Upright, reaching 2 to 3 feet tall
• Taste: Slightly sweet and earthy

Growing Information:

• Ideal Soil Temperature: 55°F to 77°F (13°C to 25°C)
• Sun Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
• Watering Needs: Regular moisture
• Fertilization: Occasional organic fertilizers
• Pest Management: Organic pest control methods

Key Benefits:

• Nutritional Value: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, along with calcium and iron.
• Culinary Versatility: Suitable for salads, soups, and sautéed dishes.
• Antioxidant Properties: High levels of carotenoids for health benefits.
• Continuous Harvest: Pick leaves from the bottom up for ongoing production.