Planting guide · zone 8a
When to plant kale in zone 8a
In zone 8a, the average last spring frost is Mar 25 and the first fall frost is Nov 12. Here is kale's whole year, counted from those dates.
Jan 14Start seeds indoorsSpring
Feb 18Transplant into the gardenSpring
Aug 9Start seeds indoorsFall
Sep 6Transplant 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.