Kale Seeds - Siberian Dwarf - Brassica oleracea

2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11

USDA Zones 2-11 - Grows as a cool-season annual in all zones. Kale is extremely cold-hardy and can even survive light freezes, which can improve its flavor.

Best performance in Zones 3-9, where it can be grown in the spring and fall.

Northern Zones (2-5) - Plant seeds outdoors as soon as the soil is workable in early spring. Can tolerate a light frost. For a fall crop, direct sow seeds in mid-summer.

Hot Climate Zones (9-11) - Best grown in late fall, winter, and early spring. Avoid planting during the summer as high temperatures can cause the leaves to become bitter.

Soil Temperature - Requires a cool soil for germination, with an optimal temperature range of 50-75F. Germination is poor in hot soils.

Growing Season - Requires 50-60 days to maturity, but you can begin harvesting leaves much sooner. This makes it an excellent crop for succession planting.

Learn more about USDA Hardiness Zones here

When to Plant:
Sow seeds directly outdoors in early spring as soon as the soil is workable, about 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost date. For a continuous harvest, plant a new batch of seeds every 2-3 weeks. For a fall crop, sow seeds in late summer, about 8-10 weeks before the first expected frost.

Location and Soil:
Choose a location that receives full sun (at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day). In warmer climates, partial afternoon shade can help prevent the leaves from becoming tough. Kale prefers rich, well-draining soil with a good amount of organic matter. A soil pH between 6.0 and 7.5 is ideal.

Sowing Seeds:

Prepare the garden bed by loosening the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches and mixing in compost.

Sow seeds about 1/2 inch deep, spacing them 1-2 inches apart.

Lightly cover the seeds with soil and gently water to moisten the seedbed.

Keep the soil consistently moist until seedlings emerge, which typically takes 7-10 days.

Once seedlings have their first true leaves, thin to a final spacing of 12-18 inches apart.

Care and Maintenance:

Watering: Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods. Inconsistent watering can lead to tough, bitter leaves.

Fertilizing: Kale is a heavy feeder. Amend the soil with compost before planting. A balanced, all-purpose fertilizer can be applied once a month to support vigorous leafy growth.

Harvesting: Begin harvesting the outer, mature leaves when they are about 6-8 inches long. Leave the central bud intact so the plant can continue to produce new leaves.

Pests and Diseases: Watch for common pests like cabbage worms and aphids. Consider using row covers to protect young plants. Good air circulation is important to prevent fungal diseases.

Winter Protection: In colder climates, a thick layer of mulch or a row cover can help extend the harvest into the winter.