Planting guide · zone 5a
When to plant kale in zone 5a
In zone 5a, the average last spring frost is May 15 and the first fall frost is Oct 1. Here is kale's whole year, counted from those dates.
Mar 6Start seeds indoorsSpring
Apr 10Transplant into the gardenSpring
Jun 28Start seeds indoorsFall
Jul 26Transplant into the gardenFall
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Soil & site
Rich soil with plenty of nitrogen — compost generously at planting. pH 6.0–7.0.
Seedling care
Ready to transplant at 4–6 weeks with 4 true leaves. Harden off over 5–7 days, and bury the stem to the first leaves.
Growing notes
The workhorse green. Watch for cabbage worms early; row cover at transplant stops the moths entirely.
Harvest
Pick lower leaves and let the crown keep producing. Flavor sweetens dramatically after hard frost.