This crop can be direct seeded into the soil after the last spring frost. You can also start plants indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date.

These seeds can be broadcast evenly in sections of the garden to create a bed of tender leaves and thinned to 6 inches apart as they mature. Plant your seeds 1/8-1/2 in. deep.

You can harvest the outer leaves of this plant as they mature or wait till it produces a full-sized head. To prevent the plant from bolting, keep the leaves well watered and cool.

This crop prefers to grow in cool seasons, so gardeners in Zones 8 and warmer should plant this vegetable in the fall. The shade from taller plants can help keep this vegetable cool in sunny gardens and warm climates.