Growing in California: Kale

In southern California, Kale is best planted in the fall. You could start in October, as it will thrive in the cooler months. Kale will also prefer growing in a rich, slightly acidic soil and can be direct seeded in the garden, or started inside the house.

You can expect to see the seeds sprout in warm soil a week after planting. If you have the room, set the seeds at least a foot apart so the plant has room to grow and thrive with ample air circulation. Keep the plants well watered and this will help the leaves become sweeter and more crisp, as opposed to tough and bitter.

Pick small baby leaves to toss into a fresh salad, or let the leaves mature for a large leaf for cooking.

Kale chips recipe:

Wash and dry kale leaves.
Removes inner stems and tear into "chip size" pieces
Place kale on a baking sheet
Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt, or other flavorings of your choice
Bake in a 350 degree oven about 10 minutes until edges are crispy and brown