Planting guide · zone 6a
When to plant kale in zone 6a
In zone 6a, the average last spring frost is Apr 28 and the first fall frost is Oct 15. Here is kale's whole year, counted from those dates.
Feb 17Start seeds indoorsSpring
Mar 24Transplant into the gardenSpring
Jul 12Start seeds indoorsFall
Aug 9Transplant 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.