Is my kale bolting and if so what should I do?

[Russel Sprout]

Hi all

First time I have grown kale and am therefore inexperienced with it. I've posted some photos below. Is it bolting, and if so is there anything that can be done to slow it down so that we can get more from the plant?

Many thanks

Max

[veggiechicken]

Yes, its bolting. Nip off the flower head.
It will probably produce more flowering side shoots. You can eat these young like sprouting broccoli!
eat the young leaves while you can!
The alternative is to et it go to seed and either save the seeds or let it seed itself where the plants are now. Depends on how tidy a gardener you are!

[Jay-ell]

Yes it's bolting. You can eat the flower buds and flowers like broccoli.

[Russel Sprout]

Thanks for the info. Well, at least I'll know for next year I'll enjoy the flower heads/stalks for now and put it down to experience! Might give the leaves a go this evening and see if they are still edible.

Many thanks

[Jay-ell]

Another's to extend the harvest is to pull it up and pop round s neighbouring plot holder who has chickens and swap it for seedlings. He gets free chicken food and I've extended it to cropping calabrese and sprouts.

[Bren In Pots]

I love the taste of those flower heads we've had some this evening steamed.