Brassica oleracea (Curly Kale) Reflex F1 – a powerful and reliable kale.

Brassica oleracea 'Reflex F1' is a vigorous and reliable curly kale specially developed for a long harvest period and excellent winter hardiness. This medium-height variety combines sturdy growth with an attractive plant structure, making it an ideal choice for anyone who wants to enjoy fresh, nutritious vegetables from their own garden even in winter.

Reflex F1 is known for its exceptional frost resistance. This characteristic makes it possible to continue harvesting well into the winter – and even until March of the following year. It is precisely after a period of frost that kale develops its characteristic flavor, as starch is converted into sugars. This results in a milder and slightly sweeter taste.

The plant has a medium-height growth habit and reaches a height of approximately 50 to 75 cm. Thanks to this compact yet sturdy growth, the plant remains upright, even in wind and bad weather. This makes Reflex F1 particularly suitable for cultivation in the Dutch climate.

Practical and harvest-friendly growth

A striking feature of this variety is the palm-like structure of the plant. The leaves grow neatly along the stem, making it easy to harvest them one by one. This not only makes harvesting easier but also encourages a longer production period.

By consistently picking the lower leaves, the plant continues to form new leaves, allowing you to harvest for an extended period without removing the entire plant.

Cultivation and sowing

The cultivation of Reflex F1 begins with a pre-cultivation from March to mid-June. The ideal germination temperature is around 15–20 °C, which makes this cabbage relatively easy to sow.

After propagation, the young plants can be planted in the open ground. Maintain a planting distance of 40 x 40 to 50 cm so that each plant has sufficient space to develop optimally.

Reflex F1 grows best in a sunny to lightly shaded location and is undemanding, as long as the soil is nutritious and well-drained.

Long harvest period

Depending on the sowing time, you can start harvesting approximately 130 days after sowing. The first harvest can take place as early as the end of July, after which production continues into the winter and even until March of the following year.

This long harvest period makes Reflex F1 particularly attractive for those who want to harvest vegetables from their own garden year-round.

Care and maintenance

Kale is generally a hardy and low-maintenance vegetable. Regular watering and nutritious soil are sufficient for good growth. Compared to other cabbage varieties, kale is less susceptible to diseases and pests.

Thanks to its robust growth and good winter hardiness, Reflex F1 can withstand changing weather conditions. This makes it a reliable choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.

Use in the kitchen

The dark green, curled leaves of Reflex F1 are rich in nutrients and versatile in use. Some popular applications include:

• Kale mash (classic dish)
• Smoothies and healthy juices
• Stir-fries
• Soups and casseroles

The flavor softens after a period of frost, which makes this cabbage particularly appealing for winter dishes.

With Reflex F1 curly kale, you choose a strong, hardy, and productive vegetable that provides a harvest for months. A perfect choice for anyone who wants to enjoy fresh and nutritious leafy greens from their own garden, even during the coldest months.