Borecole Reflex F1 Seeds | Award-Winning Winter Kale | Fosters Seeds

Borecole Reflex F1 is widely recognised as one of the finest winter kales available, combining exceptional hardiness with outstanding eating quality. This premium F1 hybrid produces tall, vigorous plants carrying masses of finely curled blue-green leaves that remain fresh and attractive long after many other leafy vegetables have finished cropping. Its proven garden performance has earned it the prestigious RHS Award of Garden Merit, making it one of the most trusted kale varieties for gardeners throughout the UK.

One of the outstanding qualities of Reflex F1 is its remarkable ability to withstand severe winter weather without yellowing or losing quality. The attractive, tightly curled leaves remain tender and succulent, developing an even sweeter flavour after exposure to frost. Harvest the young leaves for fresh salads or baby leaf production, while mature leaves are ideal for steaming, stir-fries, soups, casseroles, smoothies and traditional winter dishes. Regular picking encourages continuous production over many months, ensuring a dependable supply of nutritious greens from autumn until early spring. Whether grown in the vegetable garden or allotment, Reflex F1 is valued for its reliability, high yields and excellent winter performance.

Sowing & Propagation

Sow seeds from April to June in seed trays, modules or a prepared seedbed using a quality seed compost. Sow approximately 1.5 cm deep and keep the compost evenly moist. Germination usually occurs within 7 to 14 days under favourable conditions.

Once seedlings have developed several true leaves, transplant them into their final growing position, spacing plants 50 to 60 cm apart with 60 cm between rows. Harden off indoor-grown plants before planting outside after the risk of severe frost has passed.

Growing On

Grow in fertile, moisture-retentive, well-drained soil in a sunny or partially shaded position. Incorporate well-rotted compost or manure before planting and water regularly during dry weather to encourage continuous leaf production.

Protect young plants from pigeons and cabbage white butterflies using insect-proof netting where necessary. Remove outer leaves regularly as they mature, leaving the central growing point intact to encourage fresh growth throughout the season. Thanks to its exceptional winter hardiness, Reflex F1 continues cropping even during prolonged cold spells, providing valuable fresh vegetables when little else is available.

Harvesting

Harvest from October through March, picking individual leaves as required. The leaves become sweeter after frost and maintain their excellent texture throughout the winter. Regular harvesting promotes fresh growth and extends the cropping season well into spring. Young leaves are ideal for salads, while mature foliage is perfect for cooking.

Key Features

• Premium F1 hybrid
• RHS Award of Garden Merit
• Tall, vigorous plants
• Finely curled blue-green leaves
• Outstanding winter hardiness
• Leaves remain green without yellowing
• Sweetens after frost
• Excellent for baby leaf or mature harvest
• Long harvesting season
• Ideal for UK gardens and allotments

Borecole Reflex F1 is one of the finest winter kales for gardeners seeking dependable harvests during the colder months. Its vigorous growth, beautifully curled foliage, exceptional frost tolerance and excellent flavour make it an indispensable variety for extending the vegetable season and producing nutritious greens throughout winter.