MergKool 'Astera'

For stamppot and as green manure... Around 1930, this cabbage became popular and during WWII it was embraced as an easily grown main crop or stubble crop (sown between the stubble of the main crop as a follow-up crop). At that time (and still applicable), marrow-stem kale was sown after potatoes, peas, or grain. Farmers sow it with a precision seed drill, but pre-sowing and transplanting yield more. The plants produce an enormous amount of leaves and sturdy stems, which are first and foremost a welcome addition to livestock feed. Try making a stamppot from the (young) leaves; it's not bad at all!

Marrow-stem kale is a group name for kale-related species (called "Kale" in English) that have a sturdy stem. Its origin in Europe dates back to Roman times. Even then, humans and animals used this fertile cabbage. The leaves or young shoots (precursors to Brussels sprouts) are picked, and the nutritious stems were/are eaten by livestock. Growth is usually fast, and the plants overwinter well. This results in a cabbage on a stem, also called tree collard. Prune the flowers for good condition and years of cabbage enjoyment!

Names:
Latin: Brassica oleracea
Dutch: Mergkool
Also: Boomkool, Tree Collard
English: Fodder Kale, Marrowstem Kale, Tree Collard