Kale

Brassica oleracea (Acephala Group) · Vegetable

Quick answer: Water: Every 2–3 days in summer, when the top 1 in is dry (estimated); 1–2 in per week, deep and infrequent. Light: Full sun, tolerates partial shade. Soil: Rich, well-drained, pH 6.0–7.5 (estimated). Pets: Kale is not listed as toxic to cats and dogs, but large amounts of cabbage-family greens can upset digestion. If in doubt, ask your vet.

A tough, cold-loving green that often tastes sweeter after frost. It keeps producing leaves for months if you pick from the bottom up. Curly, flat and dark 'lacinato' types all grow the same way, in beds or in pots.

Care at a glance

Light

Full sun, tolerates partial shade

Water

1–2 in per week, deep and infrequent

Soil

Rich, well-drained, pH 6.0–7.5 (estimated)

Temperature

Best below 75 °F; young plants hardy to about 25 °F, mature plants much colder

Spacing

12–18 in in the row, 24 in between rows

Container

At least 3 gallons, 12 in deep

Harvest

50–75 days after transplanting, by variety

Lifespan

Biennial, grown as an annual

When?

Start indoors 6 weeks before your last frost and plant out 2–4 weeks before it. For an autumn crop, sow in mid to late summer so plants mature as the weather cools (estimated).

Step by step

1. Sow seeds 1/4–1/2 in deep; they sprout in 5–8 days at 60–75 °F (estimated).
2. Transplant seedlings when they have 4–5 true leaves.
3. Plant slightly deeper than in the pot and firm the soil around the stem.
4. Keep the soil evenly moist and mulch to keep roots cool.
5. Feed with compost or a balanced fertilizer every 4–6 weeks (estimated).
6. Cover young plants with fine netting against cabbage caterpillars.
7. Pick the lowest leaves first, leaving at least 5–6 at the top.

Common problems

Pets

Kale is not listed as toxic to cats and dogs, but large amounts of cabbage-family greens can upset digestion. If in doubt, ask your vet.

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