Kale Seeds - Vates Blue Scotch Curled

Description

The cold-hardy classic that defines winter greens. Brassica oleracea (Acephala Group) ‘Vates Blue Scotch Curled’ is a compact, deeply curled kale known for its rich blue-green leaves and legendary resilience. Each rosette forms a tight mound of frilled foliage, tender yet hearty, with a flavor that sweetens after frost—a true mark of the old Scotch heritage kales.

Plants grow 12–18 inches tall and spread about 24 inches wide, producing abundant leaves ideal for continual harvest. The texture is crisp and curly, excellent for fresh salads, sautés, soups, and drying into chips. Unlike taller strains, ‘Vates’ stays low and steady in the field, making it less prone to wind damage or lodging.

Developed in Virginia and released in 1950, this American heirloom descends from traditional Scottish kale lines prized for flavor and endurance. Its name, “Vates,” honors the Virginia Truck Experiment Station, where it was bred for uniformity, deep color, and adaptability. Today, it remains the standard for home and market gardeners alike—reliable, sweet, and beautiful through frost, snow, and the first blush of spring.