Kale Seeds and Plants

How to Sow

START kale seeds INDOORS in a well-lighted area in late winter to early spring in sections of the North which have cool summers. In most other areas, plant from spring to early summer and grow for fall beauty. In the South, Gulf and Pacific Coasts and other mild climates, plant from fall to winter. Sow seeds thinly 1/4-1/2" deep in seed starting formula. Keep evenly moist.

How to Grow

Seedlings emerge in 7-12 days at 65-70° F. Transplant to individual containers when seedlings have at least 2 pairs of leaves. Before transfer to the garden, accustom to outdoor conditions by moving to a sheltered area outside for a week. SET kale PLANTS 1-1 1/2’ apart in a sunny location. Flowering kale prefers rich, well-drained soil, and unlike their vegetable relatives, they cannot tolerate light shade. Avoid area where any of cabbage family grew the year before.

Harvesting

These colorful kale plants are invaluable for their fall display in beds, window boxes, and tubs. Grow them as accents or as edgings. Use flowering cabbage and kale to replace frost-killed tender annuals.