Kale Seed Growing Information
Brassica oleracea
Direct Seed: Plant kale seeds after last frost until 3 months before last expected frost in open field, or later in tunnel or greenhouse. Soil temperature for germination is 55-75° F.
Transplant: Sow seeds in trays at ½” depth. Transplant out 4-6 weeks after sowing.
Spacing: Sow seeds 3-4" apart and thin or set transplants to 12-15" apart 18-36" apart. For babyleaf, sow seeds densely in rows as close as 4” apart, at ¼-½" depth.
Growth needs: Kale seeds grow best in cool weather which brings out best flavor. Grow in fertile, well-drained soil with good organic matter content. Keep well irrigated for best growth. Can be grown in open field through the winter where temperatures are mild.
Harvest: When leaves are at desired size or about 8 weeks after transplanting by clipping individual stems at base to encourage further leaf production. Harvest leaves from the bottom of the stem up. Leaves will become sweeter with cool weather. Can be overwintered in mild climates to produce raab in the spring.
Storage: Dunk in cool water after harvest and store at 36° F at 95% relative humidity. Stores best in plastic to prevent wilt.