Flowering kale ‘Crane Feather’

Published March 08, 2017

Queen in bouquet
Photo courtesy of Takii

Flowering kale ‘Crane Feather’ is the first uniform, serrated-leaf cut flower kale on the market. The delicate foliage is extremely versatile in bouquets and adds a new texture to this classic series from Takii. Boasting strong, straight stems, this new feather-type Kale is also slightly taller and faster to color than the other Cranes. Available in two separate colors; King (white) and Queen (red). For more, takii.com

King

Photo courtesy of Takii

Production

Germination

3-4 days at 70-75°F in greenhouse or chamber

Plug

Kale is a fast plug. Typical crop time is 3 weeks from sow in a 288.
As soon as the plug is rooted, it should be planted to avoid stretching
If stretching occurs, kale can be planted deep in the bed to keep the stems straight during the first watering
Fertility — plugs grow quickly, so don’t push them. Calcium nitrate based, well-balanced soluble feed helps to promote strong, thick stems and prevent stretching.
Temperatures above 60°F/15°C at night are recommended for finishing the plugs. Kale is a cool season crop, but temperatures below 55°F/13°C result in short stems and early coloring.

Queen stem

Photo courtesy of Takii

Finishing

Transplant at second or third true leaf stage or as soon as the young plant can be pulled from the tray.

Space plants a maximum of 6” apart. Tighter spacing encourages taller, thinner stems.
Feed plants well and keep moist after transplant and for the first 4-6 weeks of growth.
When plants reach half of the desired stem length, reduce fertility and begin to restrict water to encourage thin, tough stems to increase vase life and tight flower heads.
Bottom leaf removal at this stage will also encourage stronger, thinner stems.

Timing:

Cut flower kale can be sown from June to August in areas with true seasons. Warm temperatures push vertical growth, while cool nights give the heads their desired color.
Finish times range from 11-15 weeks from transplant.
Cooler climates should transplant earlier to allow time for stem length.

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