Collards

Collards are a fairly disease- and pest-resistant cool-season crop grown in spring and fall. As a winter-hardy crop, they are often sweetened by frosts. They are vigorous growers, high in many nutrients. Use in soups and stir-fries or sauté with a bit of olive oil.

Size: 12 to 24 inches

Sunlight requirements: Full sun (A minimum of six hours is ideal.)

Water requirements: About 1 inch per week

Soil requirements: Moderately rich, fertile soil

When to plant: Direct-seed when soil temperatures range between 55 and 70 degrees F. May be grown through the winter in all but the northern-most climates.

Where to plant: Garden; containers

When to harvest: 50 to 60 days after seeding. Harvest outermost leaves to allow for longer production.

Product storage: Store unwashed in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. Use within two to three days of harvest.