Chris Molyneux from Molyneux Kale Company, grows around 3 hectares of this special variety on his farm in Ormskirk, Lancashire. The season runs from July till April. "We have a good quality crop, the Red Russian kale is a bit strange and quirky. It looks different to the other kales, it also has a different sweeter taste and a different texture, not so course as the other varieties," explains Chris. "We have smallish area here, but enough to keep the market going.
Chris has around 80 hectares of kale in total, mainly the green and red varieties. Which includes 4 hectares of coloured variegated kales, 8 ha of Cavolo Nero, which benefits from the same climate as the kale and 8ha of the company's own fresh green (or spring green) variety that is sweeter than the standard.
He also grows his very own winter kale variety, Spring Star. This variety, developed by Chris is available from April till June when everyone else is importing kale from Spain. "The growing method which we use means we can grow it at this time of the year and our climate is also very good. We are close to the coast and have a mild climate most of the time," said Chris.Another advantage of the climate and location is that there are less pests than in some areas. 25°C is the top temperature, and there is more rainfall and so no white fly, according to Chris this generally gives them the edge on quality.
There has been a huge increase in the demand for kale in the last few years, according to Chris around 25% year on year.
Chris has not increased his production by much to meet demand, "We have been producing kale for many years, sales are up though and the market is better."
The kale is sold under the company's logo and Chris explained that they try to differentiate themselves by make sure the quality is right every time.
For more information:Chris Molyneux
Molyneux Kale Company