Why Does Kale Have Thorns?
Introduction
Kale is a leafy green vegetable that is a member of the cabbage family. It is a popular ingredient in salads, smoothies, and other healthy dishes. However, some gardeners may be surprised to find that their kale plants have prickly leaves. So, why does kale have thorns?
Reasons for Thorny Kale
There are a few reasons why kale might have thorns. One reason is that it is a natural defense mechanism against pests. The thorns help to deter insects and other animals from eating the leaves. Another reason for thorny kale is that it can be a sign of crossbreeding. When different varieties of kale are crossbred, the resulting plants may have some of the characteristics of both parents, including the presence of thorns.
Identifying Thorny Kale
Not all kale varieties have thorns. The most common type of kale, curly kale, does not have thorns. However, some other varieties, such as Russian kale and Siberian kale, are known to have prickly leaves. These varieties are often grown for their ornamental value rather than for consumption.
If you are unsure whether or not your kale has thorns, there are a few things you can look for. First, check the leaves for any sharp points or prickles. If you see any, then your kale likely has thorns. You can also check the stem of the plant. If the stem is covered in small hairs, then the leaves are more likely to be prickly.
Is Thorny Kale Safe to Eat?
Thorny kale is safe to eat, but it is important to remove the thorns before cooking or eating it. The thorns can be removed by hand or by using a knife. Once the thorns are removed, the kale can be cooked and eaten like any other type of kale.
Preventing Thorny Kale
If you do not want to deal with thorny kale, there are a few things you can do to prevent it. First, choose kale varieties that are known to be thornless. Some good thornless varieties include curly kale, Lacinato kale, and Redbor kale. Second, avoid crossbreeding different varieties of kale. If you are growing multiple varieties of kale in your garden, make sure to keep them separated to prevent cross-pollination.
Conclusion
Thorny kale is a natural defense mechanism against pests and can also be a sign of crossbreeding. While thorny kale is safe to eat, it is important to remove the thorns before cooking or eating it. If you do not want to deal with thorny kale, choose thornless varieties and avoid crossbreeding different varieties.