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Kale Brassica oleracea var. acephala

Growing Kale: Tips at a Glance

There are many colorful (and nutrition-packed) varieties of kale. A cold-weather crop, this green grows best in spring and fall, and can handle frosts.

  • Type Leafy vegetable
  • USDA Zones All
  • Soil Neutral to slightly alkaline
  • Sun Full or part shade
  • Peak Season Cool weather
  • Design Tip Mix varieties
  • Water 1 to 1.5 inches per week
  • Perk Boosts allium growth
  • Lasts Through Winter Zone 7 and warmer
  • Lifespan Biennial, grown as annual

Kale: A Field Guide

Despite its current popularity among the hipster set, kale is a classic. For centuries, this green vegetable has been easy to cook (or eat raw) and easy to grow. 

Plain, curly, rape, and lacinato are kale standards, with many other colorful (and nutrition-packed) varieties to choose from. It’s a cold-weather crop, growing best in spring and fall, and can handle fall frosts. In tougher climates, shield to extend harvest. Try ‘Winterbor’ to tolerate frost well or ‘Red Russian’ for an early crop. Know that frost will sweeten kale’s earthy taste. To lengthen your harvest, clip outer leaves when they reach six inches.

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Planting, Care & Design of Kale

More About Kale

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