A much-loved heritage variety, ‘Nero di Toscana’ kale is prized for its dark, textured leaves, rich flavour and exceptional hardiness. Selected by River Cottage, it’s a reliable and productive crop for year-round harvesting.
Also known as Tuscan kale or cavolo nero, this striking variety produces long, deeply savoyed leaves with a distinctive blue-green colour. The flavour improves after exposure to frost, becoming sweeter and more tender as the season progresses.
Easy to grow and highly resilient, ‘Nero di Toscana’ thrives in a range of conditions and provides a steady supply of nutritious greens from late summer through winter.
- Organic heritage kale variety selected by River Cottage
- Dark, textured leaves with rich flavour
- Highly productive and long harvesting period
- Exceptionally hardy and frost tolerant
- Ideal for beds, raised beds and kitchen gardens
- Flavour improves after frost
A dependable, nutrient-rich crop that brings structure and abundance to the garden throughout the colder months.
Kale 'Nero Di Toscana' Organic Seeds by River Cottage
Sowing:
Sow seeds indoors or in a seedbed from March to June. Sow thinly and cover lightly with compost.Germination:
Typically takes 5–10 days. Keep soil consistently moist.Planting out:
Transplant seedlings once they are strong enough to handle, spacing around 45–60cm apart.Position:
Prefers a sunny or partially shaded position.Soil:
Grow in fertile, well-drained soil, enriched with organic matter.Care:
Water regularly and keep well weeded. Protect young plants from pests such as pigeons and caterpillars.Harvesting
Harvest from late summer through winter, picking outer leaves as required. Regular harvesting encourages continued growth.
Top tip
Leave plants in the ground over winter - cold weather enhances flavour and extends the harvest season.