Winter doesn't have to mean the end of your homegrown greens. With the right choices and a little know-how, you can enjoy fresh, nutritious leafy vegetables all winter long. In this blog post, we'll introduce you to three fantastic winter greens—kale, Swiss chard, and spinach. We'll dive into their nutritional value, how to grow them during the colder months, and share tips on extending the growing season with frost blankets.*
Nutritional Powerhouses
Before we dive into growing these winter greens, let's understand why they're worth the effort. Here's a quick overview of the nutritional value of kale, Swiss chard, and spinach.
Kale:
- Kale is a nutritional powerhouse, loaded with vitamins A, C, and K.
- It's rich in antioxidants, including beta-carotene and flavonoids, which can help fight inflammation and protect against chronic diseases.
- High in fiber and low in calories, kale supports digestion and aids in weight management.
Swiss Chard:
- Swiss chard is an excellent source of vitamins K, A, and C.
- It's rich in minerals like magnesium and potassium, essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure.
- The colorful stems contain antioxidants, while the leaves provide dietary fiber and iron.
Spinach:
- Spinach is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and iron.
- Its high levels of lutein and zeaxanthin contribute to eye health.
- Spinach is low in calories and versatile, making it a perfect addition to various dishes.
Growing Winter Greens
Now that we've explored their nutritional benefits, let's learn how to grow these winter greens:
Kale:
- Plant kale in late summer to early fall for a winter harvest.
- It thrives in well-drained, fertile soil with full sun to partial shade.
- Water consistently and protect it from harsh winds.
Swiss Chard:
- Swiss chard prefers similar growing conditions to kale.
- Sow seeds directly in the garden or transplant seedlings.
- Harvest the outer leaves as needed, allowing the plant to continue producing throughout winter.
Spinach:
- Spinach is sensitive to extreme cold, so start planting in late summer.
- Choose a location with partial shade to prevent bolting in milder winter regions.
- Regularly harvest outer leaves to encourage new growth.
Extending the Growing Season with Frost Blankets
As temperatures drop, you can use frost blankets to protect your winter greens and extend the growing season:
- Select the Right Frost Blanket: Choose a frost blanket or row cover designed for cold protection. These materials allow light and moisture to penetrate while trapping heat.
- Cover Your Greens: In late fall or when frost is expected, cover your kale, Swiss chard, and spinach with the frost blankets. Secure the edges to keep warmth in and cold out.
- Ventilate When Necessary: On warmer winter days, remember to lift or partially open the blankets to prevent overheating and allow pollinators access to your plants.
- Monitor the Weather: Keep an eye on the weather forecast and be prepared to cover your greens when frost or freezing temperatures are expected. Remove the covers during milder spells.
- Enjoy Fresh Greens: Thanks to your frost blankets, you can enjoy a steady supply of nutrient-rich greens even during the chilliest months of the year.
Growing kale, Swiss chard, and spinach during the winter months can provide you with a source of fresh, healthy greens when your garden might otherwise lie dormant. With the right care and the added protection of frost blankets, you'll be able to harvest these delicious and nutritious greens straight from your garden all season long.
~Nikki
Comments