Top 7 Collard Greens Varieties You Need in Your Garden
Collard greens, the beloved leafy vegetables that are a staple of Southern cuisine, have seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years. Whether sautéed with bacon, used in vegan wraps, or enjoyed on their own, collard greens are known for their delicious taste and nutritional value. And did you know that there are several different varieties to choose from?
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best collard greens cultivars available to home gardeners. From heirloom types with a long history of cultivation to carefully bred hybrids, there’s a perfect variety out there for every gardener who loves their leafy greens.
7 Best Collard Cultivars
- Champion
- Ellen Felton Dark
- Georgia
- Morris Heading
- Old Timey Blue
- Tiger Hybrid
- Vates
1. Champion
Champion is an improved ‘Vates’ type that is known for its high yields and disease resistance. With large, dark blue-green leaves that are slow to bolt, this cultivar can be stored in the fridge longer than other types while maintaining its tasty texture.
2. Ellen Felton Dark
Ellen Felton Dark is an heirloom cultivar with dark green, tender, and flavorful leaves. This variety dates back to at least 1935 and has a rich history of cultivation by Ellen Felton and her son, Harrell.
3. Georgia
Georgia, also known as ‘Georgia Hybrid’ or ‘Georgia Southern,’ is a favorite among growers for its flavorful leaves that improve with a touch of frost. This cultivar is tolerant of heat, cold, and poor soil conditions, making it a great choice for warmer climates.
4. Morris Heading
Unlike other varieties, Morris Heading is a heading type that produces loose heads of leaves. With a compact growth habit and tender, medium green leaves, this cultivar matures in 75-85 days and is tolerant of heat and cold.
5. Old Timey Blue
Old Timey Blue, also known as ‘Alabama Blue,’ is a unique cultivar with ornamental appeal. With pale blue-green leaves and purple stems, this heirloom variety has a rich history dating back at least 100 years.
6. Tiger Hybrid
Tiger Hybrid is a high-yielding cultivar with thick, savoyed leaves and a satisfying flavor. Known for its upright growth habit, this variety can be planted as a cut-and-come-again crop for repeat harvests.
7. Vates
Vates is a high-yielding heirloom cultivar with dark green, shiny leaves and yellow stems. Disease and frost resistant, this variety matures in 75-85 days and is slow to bolt.
Grow Your Own Greens
Ready to grow your own flavorful and nutritious collard greens? Collard seeds can be started indoors or sown directly in the garden. Plant in succession for multiple harvests throughout the season and plan for exposure to light frost for the best flavor.
Which variety will you add to your garden this year? Do you have a favorite cultivar that wasn’t mentioned here? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
For more information on growing collard greens, check out these helpful guides:
- How to Grow Collard Greens: Discover the Southern culture of growing collard greens.
- Tips for Growing Collard Greens in Winter: Learn how to grow collard greens during the winter months.
- Health Benefits of Homegrown Collard Greens: Explore the nutritional benefits of homegrown collard greens.
With these tips and a little care, you’ll soon be enjoying delicious collard wraps, savory sides, and nutritious soups made with your very own homegrown collard greens. Happy gardening!
