Planting guide · zone 9b
When to plant kale in zone 9b
In zone 9b, the average last spring frost is Feb 14 and the first fall frost is Dec 12. Here is kale's whole year, counted from those dates.
Dec 6, 2025Start seeds indoorsSpring
Jan 10Transplant into the gardenSpring
Sep 8Start seeds indoorsFall
Oct 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.