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Ethiopian kale, also known as Ethiopian mustard or "Gomenzer”
Planting Ethiopian kale, is similar to planting other varieties of kale. Here are the basic steps: * Select a Location: Choose a sunny spot in your garden with well-drained soil. Ethiopian kale prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. * Prepare the Soil: Ensure your soil is rich in organic matter and well-drained. You can amend the soil with compost to improve its fertility. * Planting Seeds: Sow the Ethiopian kale seeds directly into the prepared soil. Space the seeds about 1/2 inch deep and 12-18 inches apart in rows. * Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water regularly, especially during dry spells. * Thinning: Once the seedlings have grown a few inches tall, thin them to allow proper spacing. Leave the healthiest seedlings, usually spaced 12-18 inches apart. * Fertilizing: You can fertilize with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer, following the package instructions. Repeat fertilization during the growing season as needed. * Mulching: Applying mulch around the plants can help retain moisture and suppress weeds. * Pest and Disease Management: Keep an eye out for pests like aphids and caterpillars. Use organic or chemical-free methods to control them if necessary. Ethiopian kale is relatively resistant to pests and diseases compared to other varieties of kale. * Harvesting: You can start harvesting the outer leaves of the Ethiopian kale when they reach a suitable size, typically about 6-8 inches in length. Be sure to leave the center leaves intact for continued growth. * Pruning: Regularly pruning or harvesting outer leaves encourages the plant to produce more foliage. Remember that Ethiopian kale, like other kale varieties, is a cool-season crop. It's best grown in the spring and fall when temperatures are cooler. As temperatures rise, Ethiopian kale may bolt (produce flowers and go to seed), which can make the leaves bitter. If this happens, it's a sign to harvest the plant.
