Planting guide · zone 7b
When to plant kale in zone 7b
In zone 7b, the average last spring frost is Apr 5 and the first fall frost is Nov 5. Here is kale's whole year, counted from those dates.
Jan 25Start seeds indoorsSpring
Mar 1Transplant into the gardenSpring
Aug 2Start seeds indoorsFall
Aug 30Transplant 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.