Bear Necessities Kale
Brassica napus
Seeds per pack ~ 180
Germination: 75% Oct 2024 Packed for 2025
Origins and History
Bear Necessities Kale is a relatively recent heirloom-type brassica developed through selection within the Brassica napus species, which includes Siberian kales and rutabagas. It was bred by Frank Morton of Wild Garden Seed in Oregon, known for creating unique, resilient, and flavorful leafy greens. This variety was intentionally developed for cold-hardiness, vigor, and tender leaves that maintain sweetness even in frosty conditions. Although not an ancient heirloom like some European kales, Bear Necessities has quickly become valued in seed-saving and heirloom gardening communities for its resilience and flavor, earning a place in the catalog of culturally meaningful modern heirlooms.
Appearance and Characteristics
Bear Necessities Kale is most noted for its finely dissected, frilly leaves that resemble parsley or Mizuna greens more than traditional flat kale. The leaves are deeply cut, delicate in appearance, and bright green with fine serrations that give the plant a feathery, ornamental look. It grows as a hardy biennial in temperate climates, with plants typically reaching 18–24 inches tall and producing a lush rosette of leaves. Beyond its beauty, the finely divided foliage also reduces damage from pests, as insects find it harder to chew through the lace-like structure.
Culinary Uses
This kale is exceptionally versatile in the kitchen. Its tender, frilly leaves have a mild, sweet flavor without the bitterness sometimes found in other kales. Bear Necessities works well in raw salads, where its delicate texture pairs beautifully with vinaigrettes and citrus dressings. It can also be lightly sautéed, stir-fried, or added to soups for a leafy green boost. Many chefs appreciate its aesthetic appeal as a garnish, while home cooks value its ability to remain tender even when cooked. Because of its mildness, it is a favorite for introducing children and kale newcomers to leafy greens.
Growing Tips
Bear Necessities Kale thrives in cool seasons and is best suited for USDA Zones 4–9, though it can be grown outside these zones with protection. It prefers fertile, well-drained soil rich in organic matter and does best in full sun, though it can tolerate partial shade. Seeds should be sown directly into the garden ¼ inch deep, with thin seedlings spaced 8–12 inches apart. For a continuous harvest, stagger plantings every 2–3 weeks in spring and again in late summer for fall crops. Like most kales, Bear Necessities sweetens after exposure to frost, making it an excellent fall and winter crop.
Harvesting Guidance
Leaves can be harvested as baby greens about 25–30 days after sowing, while full-sized leaves are ready in 50–60 days. For continued harvest, practice the “cut-and-come-again” method by picking outer leaves and allowing the central crown to keep producing. Regular harvesting encourages new growth and prolongs the season. In many climates, Bear Necessities can overwinter, providing fresh greens throughout the colder months and flowering in the second year if allowed to go to seed for saving.
