Vates Collards
Brassica oleracea
Seeds per pack ~100
Germination: 90% (Packed for 2025)
Origins and History
Vates Collards (Brassica oleracea var. viridis) are a beloved heirloom variety developed in the United States during the 1950s by the Virginia Agricultural Experiment Station (V.A.T.E.S., from which the variety gets its name). It was bred to be slow to bolt and especially cold-hardy, making it ideal for Southern growers looking to extend their harvests into the cooler months. Vates Collards are part of a long tradition of African American and Southern agricultural heritage, with deep roots in both subsistence farming and culinary culture.
Appearance and Characteristics
Vates Collards produce compact, non-heading rosettes of dark green, smooth, and slightly crinkled leaves. The plants typically grow 18–24 inches tall and spread out with a broad, leafy habit. This variety is known for its uniformity and smaller size compared to other collards, making it well-suited for tighter garden spaces. The leaves are tender and retain excellent texture and flavor even after frost, which actually improves their taste.
Culinary Uses
Vates Collards are a staple in Southern cooking and are often slow-simmered with smoked meats, garlic, onions, and vinegar. Their mild, earthy flavor pairs well with both savory and spicy seasonings. The young leaves can also be used raw in salads or wraps, while mature leaves are ideal for braising or stewing. Because they are less bitter than some other collard varieties, Vates are especially popular for family-style cooking and community meals.
Days to Maturity
Vates Collards typically reach maturity in 75 to 80 days from direct seeding. Baby greens may be harvested much earlier, often within 35 to 45 days.
Growing Tips
Vates Collards thrive in full sun and fertile, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Direct sow seeds in spring or late summer, spacing them about 12 to 18 inches apart. This variety is extremely cold-hardy and can overwinter in many areas with mild climates, especially in USDA zones 7–10. Regular watering and side-dressing with compost or balanced fertilizer will support lush leaf production. Mulching can help suppress weeds and retain soil moisture.
Harvesting Guidance
Begin harvesting outer leaves when they are large enough to eat, typically 10 inches long or more. Always leave the central growing tip intact to allow continuous leaf production. For sweeter flavor, try harvesting after the first light frost. Vates Collards are also suitable for successive harvests and can be picked over a long season, especially in fall and early winter gardens. Store harvested leaves in the refrigerator, wrapped in a damp cloth or paper towel, for up to a week.
