Collards – Bolting

Q: On Good Friday, I planted collard plants. I have just noticed they are going to seed. What have I done wrong?

A: Bolting (producing flowers rather than more leaves) is usually caused by fluctuations in air temperature when a collard plant is small to medium-sized. After bolting begins, the plant will not grow larger. The leaves will not taste good. Harvest and eat your collards now. Consider planting seeds in fall rather than spring, taking advantage of cooler autumn weather.