Vates Collards

COLLARDS - fresh market greens

CULTURE: Sow thinly @ 5 seeds per in/26 mm; 0.25 in/6 mm deep, every week from June 1st until Aug. for a continuous supply of leaf greens. Collards look like cabbage, but do not head and are similar to kale, but are taller growing with smooth leaves. Leaves are harvested like swiss chard on a cut and come basis. Sow in rows 2 ft/61 cm apart. Leaves are harvested when plants are about 2 ft/61 cm high. Collards will withstand heat much more than other members of the cole family. Seeds produce mature plants in 75-80 days. Early cuttings are used in salads. Late fall frosts improve mild cabbage flavor. Keep well watered through dry periods. Eat raw leaves in salads or cook in water till tender for 10-15 min.