Purple Soft Leaf Kale is a Metchosin Farm original—developed over many years from crosses between several favourite kale types. This unique variety features broad, deep green leaves with striking purple veins and a soft, tender texture. The flavour is mild and sweet, especially after frost, making it ideal for fresh eating, soups, sautés, and smoothies. A perfect addition to the year-round garden, this kale thrives in our coastal BC climate and is a standout for winter gardening.

Where Can You Grow Purple Soft Leaf Kale?
Best grown in Zones 3–9, this kale thrives in full sun to partial shade and does well in both open garden beds and containers. It is well suited to cool-season growing and overwintering in milder regions.

History and Historical Uses
Kale has long been a staple in cold-climate gardens, treasured for its cold-hardiness and exceptional nutritional content. This variety was bred and selected at Metchosin Farm for over a decade, combining the sweetness and winter tolerance of traditional types with soft, tender leaves. Kale has been used historically as a nutrient-rich green vegetable eaten fresh or cooked.

Canadian Zone Information
Zones 8-9: Direct sow in early spring or fall; can be harvested all winter.
Zones 5-7: Sow outdoors in spring and late summer; provide protection for winter crops.
Zones 3-4: Start indoors and transplant after frost; consider row covers for late-season growing.

How to Grow and Harvest Purple Soft Leaf Kale
Planting: Sow seeds 0.5cm (¼in) deep, spaced 30-45cm (12-18in) apart.
Watering: Keep soil evenly moist, especially during dry spells.
Harvesting: Pick young leaves for salads or wait until after frost for sweetest flavour.
Maintenance: Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds; remove old leaves to encourage growth.

Seed Saving Tips for Future Supply
Allow Plants to Overwinter: Kale flowers in its second year.
Collect Mature Seeds: Harvest seed pods when dry and brittle.
Dry and Store: Remove seeds from pods and store in a cool, dark, dry location.
Longevity: Seeds remain viable for 4-5 years under proper conditions.

Certified Organic By
Islands Organics Producers Association (Cert#1962)