Brassicas: Brussels Sprouts, Kale, Kohlrabi and Asian Greens

With dozens of brassica vegetable varieties to choose from, the right selection means the difference between success and disappointment. Use this guide to determine what Brussels sprouts, kale, kohlrabi and Asian greens will suit you best.

Excerpted from Simple Steps: Vegetable Gardening

Kale <em>‘Nero di Toscana’</em>

Also known as Black Tuscany or Cavolo Nero, this is the favored kale in Italian kitchens. Its upright leaves are almost black and blistered like those of savoy cabbages. Use mature leaves in soups and stews, baby ones in salads.

Sow: Early spring to early summer
Harvest: Early fall to early spring
Soil Preference: Well-drained soil, moist soil
Sun or Shade: Full sun, partial or dappled shade