Red Russian Kale Brassica napus (Pabularia Group)

Brassica napus (Pabularia Group) is commonly called Siberian kale for a good reason, as it is a cold weather vegetable.  They are winter hardy to 10 degrees.  The genus name Brassica is Latin for cabbage.

Although it can be grown in different soil types, this variety of kale grows best in well composted loams that are organically rich.  Constant moisture is a must, but good drainage should be provided.  It will tolerate some shade, but full sun is best.  If grown from seed for a spring harvest period, seed can be sown indoors and then placed in the garden weeks prior to the last frost.  A fall harvest will yield the best results.  Seed sown by early August will be ready for harvest in the fall.  Where the winters are mild, the seed can be sown about 6 weeks before the expected first frost.  They will overwinter as biennials.  Provide mulch for protection from the cold temperatures.  

Differing from other varieties of kale, Siberian kale is more tender and has a milder taste.  It is also more resistant to insects and diseases as well as be more winter hardy.  The leaves can be eaten raw or cooked.  An oil is extracted from the seed that is used for cooking purposes or on salads.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Diseases affecting this plant include club root, leaf spot, and black rot.  Insect problems include flea beetles, aphids, whitefly, root maggots and fungus gnats.