Seed Depth: 1/4–1/2 inch

Seed Spacing: 18–24 inches

Row Spacing: 24–36 inches

Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade

Days to Sprout: 5–10 days

Days to Maturity: 75–80 days

Growth Habit: Upright, leafy biennial grown as an annual

Sunlight: Prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade, especially in warmer climates.

Soil Type: Thrives in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0–7.5. Enrich with compost for better growth.

When to Plant: Sow seeds directly outdoors in early spring or late summer for a fall crop. For an earlier harvest, start seeds indoors 4–6 weeks before the last frost.

Direct Sowing: Plant seeds 1/4–1/2 inch deep, spacing them 18–24 inches apart in rows 24–36 inches apart. Thin seedlings to the desired spacing once they emerge.

Indoor Sowing: Start seeds in trays and transplant when seedlings are 4–6 inches tall.

Succession Planting: Sow every 2–3 weeks for a continuous harvest during cool weather.

Watering: Water deeply and consistently to keep soil evenly moist but not soggy. Mulch helps retain moisture and regulate temperature.

Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer or compost at planting and again mid-season to encourage leafy growth.

Pruning: Harvest outer leaves regularly to encourage new growth and maintain plant health.

Pest and Disease Control: Watch for aphids, cabbage worms, and flea beetles. Use organic pest controls and ensure proper spacing for airflow.

When to Harvest: Harvest outer leaves when they are 10–12 inches long, typically 75–80 days after planting. For baby greens, harvest earlier.

How to Harvest: Use scissors or a knife to cut leaves at the base, leaving the central growing point intact for continuous harvests.

Seed Collection: Allow plants to bolt and form seed pods in their second year. Collect seeds once pods are dry and brittle.

Storing Seeds: Store seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.