Kale, a member of the cabbage family, is a cool-season vegetable grown for its leaves. Leaves taste sweeter after exposure to cold temperatures.
Planting
- Transplant 12 to 24 inches apart in February to April or September to October, possibly in May, August, or November depending on weather or local conditions .
- Direct seed 6 to 8 inches apart in March to April or September to October, possibly in February, May, August, or November depending on weather or local conditions. Thin to 12 to 24 inches apart.
- If growing your own seedlings, start the seeds 4 weeks before you want to plant.
Harvesting
- Harvest lower leaves when they reach 8 to 10 inches in size.
- The plant will continue growing and producing new leaves at the top for months.
- In general, smaller leaves are more tender.
Pest management
Kale is in the cabbage family, also known as cole crops or brassicas, and pests are similar across the family.
Pests and disorders of cabbage, UC IPM
More links
- Kale in the Garden, Utah State University Extension
Recommended varieties for Santa Clara County*
| Dazzling Blue, OP | This striking kale features blue-green savoyed leaves with dramatic pink midribs. Upright growth. New from Wild Garden Seed. 24 to 30 inches tall. Plant 12 to 18 inches apart. |
| Lacinato, OP | Heirloom Italian variety is a gorgeous, striking plant with delicious dark blue-green leaves. 24 to 36 inches tall. Plant 18 to 24 inches apart. |
| Premier Blend, OP | You‘ll get a beautiful variety of colors, textures, sizes, and flavors with this special five kale blend (Dwarf Blue Curled, Improved Dwarf Siberian, Lacinato, Premier, and Red Russian). 24 to 30 inches tall. Plant 12 to 18 inches apart. |
| Red Russian, OP | Tasty and ornamental kale with red veins will prolifically produce sweet, tender young leaves all winter long. 24 to 30 inches tall. Plant 12 to 18 inches apart. |
| Tronchuda Beira, Hybrid | Portuguese variety. Paddle-shaped, deep green leaves with mild, rich flavor. 24 to 30 inches tall. Plant 12 to 18 inches apart. |
| Tuscan Baby Leaf, OP | More tender texture and sweeter flavor than mature kale leaves make this wonderful for salads. Plant close together and harvest when just 4 to 5 inches tall, leaving crown to regrow for multiple harvests. |
| Wild Garden Frills, OP | Mix of mild and delicious Siberian heirloom kales Wild Red and Green Russian. Blue-green frilled leaves with red or white veins. Plant 18 to 24 inches apart. |
* Many other varieties may also do well here in Santa Clara County. This list is based on UC Master Gardener trials, taste tests, and feedback from local growers.