What is the best kale for food plots?

When it comes to choosing the best kale variety for food plots, Siberian Kale stands out as a top choice. This cool-season annual is not only easy to grow but also offers numerous benefits for both gardeners and wildlife enthusiasts.

One of the key advantages of Siberian Kale is its high protein content. With levels ranging from 15% to 20%, this variety is an excellent source of plant-based protein. Whether you are growing kale for personal consumption or to attract wildlife, this nutritional aspect is highly beneficial. It can be a valuable addition to a vegetarian or vegan diet, providing a substantial amount of protein.

Furthermore, Siberian Kale boasts exceptional digestibility, with its leaves being more than 90% digestible. This means that the nutrients present in the kale are efficiently absorbed by the body, maximizing its nutritional value. In terms of forage, this digestibility factor is crucial for wildlife such as deer, rabbits, or other herbivores that may rely on kale as a food source.

In addition to its nutritional qualities, Siberian Kale is also a dwarf variety, which means it has a compact growth habit. This feature is advantageous for food plots, as it allows for higher plant density and maximizes the overall yield. Well-maintained plots can produce 8 or more tons of forage per acre, making Siberian Kale a highly productive choice.

From a gardening perspective, Siberian Kale is relatively easy to grow. It is a cool-season annual, meaning it thrives in cooler temperatures and can withstand frost. This makes it suitable for planting in early spring or late summer. The plant requires well-drained soil and benefits from regular watering to ensure optimal growth.

Personally, I have had great success with Siberian Kale in my own food plot. The compact growth habit allowed me to plant a significant number of plants in a relatively small area, maximizing my yield. The high protein content and digestibility made it a great addition to my vegetarian diet, providing a nutritious and versatile ingredient for various dishes.

Siberian Kale is undoubtedly one of the best kale varieties for food plots. Its high protein content, exceptional digestibility, and productive nature make it a valuable choice for both gardeners and wildlife enthusiasts. Whether you are looking to enhance your own diet or provide a nutritious food source for wildlife, Siberian Kale is a reliable and rewarding option.

Photo of author

Caroline Bates

Caroline is a Miami-based landscaper who specializes in drought-tolerant landscapes. She is the mother of two young children and also enjoys writing for GreenPacks.org in her spare time. Caroline takes great pride in her work, and loves being able to share her knowledge with others through her writing.