Light frost enhances flavor. Blanch this plant for a milder flavor. A week or so before harvest, pull outer leaves over the head of the plant and tie. Make sure the leaves are dry to avoid rotting. Other blanching alternatives include placing a flowerpot over the plant, or covering with a cardboard disk or plastic container. Close plant spacing (8") encourages self-blanching.
Individual leaves can be picked for salads, or the whole plant can be used as a steamed vegetable.