Collard Seeds (Dizengoff | 25g)

Collard Sowing And Planting Tips

• Start collards from seed or transplants.
• The seed is viable for 4 years.
• Start seeds indoors 6 to 4 weeks before the last frost in spring or 12 to 10 weeks before the first frost in fall.
• Start seeds in individual pots or flats.
• Sow seed ¼ to ½ (6-13 cm) inch deep in the seed-starting mix.
• Keep the mix moist but not wet.
• Seed should germinate in 5 to 10 days at an optimal temperature of 75°F (24°C) or thereabouts.
• Transplant seedlings into the garden when they 4 to 6 inches (10-15 cm) tall with 2- to 4-leaves and daytime temperatures reach 50°F (10°C); firm transplants into the soil by hand.
• Prefers a soil pH range of 6.0 to 7.5.
• Set transplants slightly deeper than they grew in pots or flats.
• Grow collards in full sun for best yield—tolerates partial shade.
• Add 3- to 4- inches of compost and well-aged manure into the planting bed, before transplanting; collards need friable, moisture-holding soil.
• Avoid planting where cabbage family crops have grown recently.
• Space plants 18 to 20 inches (45-50 cm) apart in all directions.
• Space rows 24-42 inches (60-106 cm) apart.
• Protect seedlings from the cold for 2 to 3 weeks after planting covering them with a cloche or plastic tunnel or cold frame.
• Fertilize with an organic fertilizer such as fish emulsion at half strength.
• Common pest enemies are aphids, cabbage worms and loopers, cabbage worms, and cutworms.