Your Complete Guide to Growing, Harvesting, and Caring for Kale
Kale is a nutrient-rich, leafy green that is easy to grow and thrives in various climates. Whether you’re just starting out in gardening or have years of experience, this guide will provide you with everything you need to know about how to grow kale successfully.
Kale Varieties
Understanding the different varieties of kale can help you choose the best type for your garden and culinary preferences. Each variety has unique characteristics, making it suitable for different growing conditions and uses.
- Blue Curled Scotch Kale: This hardy variety has blue-green, curled leaves and can grow up to 2 feet tall. Known for its sweeter, milder flavour, it’s perfect for salads and smoothies. Its cold tolerance makes it an excellent choice for cooler climates.
- Lacinato Kale: Also known as Tuscan or dinosaur kale, this variety features long, narrow, dark green, bumpy leaves. It has a sweeter and less bitter taste compared to other kale types, making it a favourite for salads, soups, and smoothies. Lacinato kale is also highly resistant to cold, allowing it to thrive in cooler seasons.
- Red Russian Kale: Also called Ragged Jack, this variety has flat, frilly, blue-green leaves with reddish-purple stems. It grows up to 3 feet tall and is known for its tender, slightly sweet leaves that withstand cold weather. Red Russian kale is versatile, suitable for fresh use or cooking.
Growing kale successfully hinges on creating the right conditions and understanding the plant’s needs throughout its life cycle. Here’s an expanded look at key considerations for cultivating strong, healthy kale plants:
1. Choosing the Right Location
Kale is a resilient plant, but it performs best when grown in a location that meets its specific requirements:
- Sunlight: Kale thrives in full sun, which means it should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. However, it can also tolerate partial shade, particularly in hotter climates, where some afternoon shade can prevent the leaves from becoming bitter. If you’re gardening in a region with intense summer heat, consider planting kale where it will get morning sun and afternoon shade.
- Climate: Kale prefers cooler temperatures, making it an ideal crop for early spring and fall. It can even survive frosts, which can enhance the sweetness of the leaves. In milder climates, kale can be grown almost year-round, while in colder regions, it’s best planted as a spring or fall crop.
2. Soil Preparation
The quality of your soil plays a critical role in the health of your kale plants:
- Soil Type: Kale grows best in well-drained, loamy soil that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged. Heavy clay soils can be improved by adding organic matter like compost or aged manure, which helps with drainage and aeration. Sandy soils, which drain too quickly, can also benefit from the addition of organic matter to retain moisture.
- Soil pH: Kale prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. If you’re unsure about your soil’s pH, consider using a soil test kit. Adjust the pH if necessary by adding lime to raise it or sulfur to lower it.
- Fertilization: Before planting, enrich the soil with compost or a balanced organic fertilizer to ensure your kale has the nutrients it needs for strong growth. Kale is a heavy feeder, particularly of nitrogen, which promotes leafy growth. An application of a nitrogen-rich fertilizer or fish emulsion can be beneficial during the growing season, especially if you notice the leaves are pale or slow-growing.
3. Planting Kale Seeds
Proper planting techniques are essential for ensuring strong, healthy plants:
- Direct Sowing: Kale seeds can be directly sown in the garden once the soil temperature reaches at least 45°F (7°C). Sow the seeds about 1/4 inch deep in rows spaced 12-18 inches apart. Thin seedlings to the strongest plants, maintaining spacing of 12-18 inches between plants to allow ample room for growth.
- Transplanting Seedlings: If you start seeds indoors, plant them in pots 4-6 weeks before your last expected frost. Transplant the seedlings to the garden when they are 4-6 inches tall and have developed a few sets of true leaves. Harden off the seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over a week before transplanting.
- Succession Planting: To enjoy a continuous harvest, consider succession planting every 3-4 weeks. This practice ensures you have fresh kale throughout the growing season. In regions with hot summers, plant a new batch of kale in late summer for a fall harvest.
4. Watering & Fertilizing
Consistent care is key to growing vigorous kale plants:
- Watering: Kale needs about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week, either from rainfall or irrigation. Water the plants deeply and consistently to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Kale is sensitive to drought, which can cause the leaves to become tough and bitter. In hot or dry weather, mulch around the base of the plants to retain soil moisture.
- Fertilizing: Kale benefits from regular feeding throughout the growing season. Apply a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks, or side-dress with compost to provide a steady supply of nutrients. If you notice the leaves are pale green or growth slows, this may indicate a nitrogen deficiency. In this case, apply a nitrogen-rich fertilizer like blood meal, fish emulsion, or a well-balanced organic fertilizer.
5. Mulching
Mulching is an essential practice in kale care that offers multiple benefits:
- Moisture Retention: Mulch helps the soil retain moisture, reducing the need for frequent watering. This is especially important in hot climates or during dry spells.
- Weed Suppression: A thick layer of mulch prevents weeds from germinating and competing with your kale for nutrients and water. Use organic mulches like straw, shredded leaves, or grass clippings, which will also break down and improve soil quality over time.
- Temperature Regulation: Mulch insulates the soil, keeping it cooler during hot weather and warmer during cold spells. This helps maintain consistent growth conditions for your kale plants.
6. Pest & Disease Management
Even with the best care, kale can sometimes fall victim to pests and diseases. Early detection and management are key to keeping your plants healthy:
- Common Pests: Kale is susceptible to pests such as aphids, cabbage worms, flea beetles, and slugs. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of pest damage, such as holes in the leaves or stunted growth. Hand-pick larger pests like cabbage worms or use organic insecticides such as neem oil or insecticidal soap to control infestations. Introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs can also help manage aphid populations.
- Disease Prevention: Kale can be affected by diseases like downy mildew, black rot, and clubroot. To minimize the risk, practice crop rotation by not planting kale or other brassicas in the same spot more than once every three years. Ensure proper spacing between plants to improve air circulation and avoid overhead watering to reduce the chances of fungal diseases.
By following these expanded growing kale tips, you’ll be well on your way to cultivating a healthy, productive kale crop that will provide you with delicious greens for months. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gardener, these practices will help you get the most out of your kale plants.
Harvesting Kale & Storage: Tips for Maximum Freshness
Knowing when and how to harvest kale is crucial to enjoying its peak flavour and nutritional benefits. Proper storage techniques can also extend the freshness of your harvest, allowing you to enjoy your homegrown kale for longer.
When to Harvest Kale
Kale is a versatile crop that can be harvested at different stages of growth:
- Baby Kale: If you prefer tender, young leaves, you can start harvesting kale when the leaves are about 2-3 inches long. This stage, often referred to as “baby kale,” is ideal for salads and fresh use. Simply snip the outer leaves with scissors or a sharp knife, leaving the inner leaves to continue growing.
- Mature Kale: For larger, more robust leaves, wait until the kale plants are about 8-10 inches tall. The outer leaves should be firm and dark green. Harvest by cutting the lower leaves near the base of the plant, allowing the central leaves to keep growing. This method, known as “cut-and-come-again,” enables continuous harvesting throughout the season.
- Frost-Hardened Kale: Kale’s flavour can improve after a light frost, as the cold weather converts some of the plant’s starches into sugars, resulting in sweeter leaves. If you’re growing kale in the fall, consider waiting until after the first frost to harvest for the best flavour.
How to Harvest Kale
To ensure the healthiest plants and best-tasting leaves, follow these steps when harvesting:
- Use Clean Tools: Always use clean, sharp scissors or a knife to cut the leaves. This reduces the risk of spreading diseases to your plants.
- Harvest in the Morning: The best time to harvest kale is in the early morning when the leaves are at their freshest. The moisture content is higher, making the leaves crisp and flavourful.
- Cut Leaves Individually: Rather than pulling or tearing the leaves, cut them individually near the stem. This minimizes damage to the plant and encourages new growth.
- Avoid Harvesting the Crown: Always leave the central crown of the plant intact, as this is where new growth will emerge. Harvesting too aggressively or cutting the crown can stunt the plant’s growth or kill it.
Storing Kale
Once harvested, proper storage is essential to maintain kale’s freshness and nutritional value:
- Short-Term Storage: For immediate use, store kale in the refrigerator. Wrap the leaves in a damp paper towel and place them in a plastic bag or an airtight container. Kale stored this way will stay fresh for up to a week. Avoid washing the leaves before storing, as excess moisture can lead to wilting and spoilage.
- Long-Term Storage: If you have a large harvest, you can store kale for longer periods by freezing it. Here’s how:
- Blanching: Begin by washing the kale thoroughly. Remove the tough stems and blanch the leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes. Immediately transfer the blanched leaves to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
- Drying: Pat the leaves dry with a clean towel or use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture.
- Freezing: Spread the leaves on a baking sheet in a single layer and place them in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer the leaves to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen kale can be stored for up to 6 months and is perfect for use in smoothies, soups, and stews.
- Dehydrating Kale: Another method of preservation is dehydrating kale. Wash and dry the leaves, then place them in a dehydrator or a low-temperature oven until they are crisp. Store the dehydrated kale in an airtight container for use in kale chips, soups, or as a seasoning.
By following these tips on harvesting kale & storage, you can maximize the freshness and longevity of your kale, ensuring that you have access to nutritious greens long after the growing season has ended. Properly stored, kale retains much of its flavour and nutritional value, making it a versatile ingredient for a wide range of dishes.
Kale Companion Planting: A Complete Guide
Companion planting is an essential gardening technique that can improve the health, yield, and flavour of your kale crop. By carefully selecting the right plants to grow alongside kale, you can naturally deter pests, enhance soil fertility, and create a balanced ecosystem in your garden. Here’s a complete guide to companion planting for kale, including beneficial plants and those to avoid.
Beneficial Companion Plants for Kale
These plants can boost kale’s growth, repel pests, and contribute to a healthier garden environment:
- Herbs:
- Basil: Basil is known to repel common kale pests like aphids and flea beetles. Its strong scent can mask the smell of kale, making it harder for pests to locate.
- Dill: Dill attracts beneficial insects such as ladybugs and parasitic wasps, which prey on aphids and caterpillars. Dill also improves kale’s flavour and growth.
- Cilantro: Like dill, cilantro attracts beneficial insects that help control pest populations. It also grows well in the same conditions as kale, making it a great companion.
- Vegetables:
- Beets: Beets grow well alongside kale without competing for nutrients. They help to loosen the soil, which can improve root development for kale. Additionally, beet greens can provide shade for the base of kale plants, keeping the soil cool and moist.
- Celery: Celery’s aromatic qualities can repel pests such as cabbage moths, which often target kale. Growing celery next to kale can also help maximize garden space.
- Onions & Garlic: These alliums are natural pest repellents, particularly against aphids, slugs, and cabbage worms. Their strong scent deters pests from attacking kale and other nearby plants.
- Legumes:
- Flowers:
- Marigolds: Marigolds are well-known for their pest-repelling properties. They emit a strong scent that deters nematodes, aphids, and other harmful insects. Planting marigolds near kale can protect your crop from pest damage.
- Nasturtiums: Nasturtiums are a great trap crop, attracting aphids and other pests away from kale. They also repel whiteflies and act as a ground cover, reducing weed growth around kale plants.
Plants to Avoid Near Kale
While some plants are beneficial companions for kale, others can hinder its growth or attract unwanted pests. Here are some plants to avoid planting near kale:
- Brassicas: Avoid planting kale near other members of the Brassica family, such as broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts. These plants share similar nutrient requirements and are susceptible to the same pests and diseases, leading to increased competition and risk of infestations.
- Strawberries: Strawberries can compete with kale for nutrients and space. Additionally, they can attract pests like slugs and snails, which can damage kale leaves.
- Tomatoes: While tomatoes can grow well with many other plants, they are not ideal companions for kale. Tomatoes require a lot of nutrients, particularly nitrogen, which can leave kale undernourished. Additionally, tomatoes and kale attract different pests that can harm each other’s growth.
- Grapes: Grapevines are heavy feeders and require a lot of space. They can overshadow kale, competing for sunlight and nutrients, which can stunt kale’s growth.
Companion Planting Tips for Kale
To maximize the benefits of companion planting with kale, consider these tips:
- Diversity is Key: Plant a variety of companions around your kale to create a balanced ecosystem. This diversity helps prevent pest infestations and promotes healthy plant growth.
- Spacing and Timing: Ensure that companion plants are spaced appropriately to avoid overcrowding and competition for resources. Consider the growth habits and size of each plant when planning your garden layout.
- Rotate Crops: To reduce the risk of disease and pest buildup, practice crop rotation by planting kale and its companions in different areas of your garden each year.
By using this guide, you’ll not only learn how to grow kale effectively but also create a thriving, balanced garden. Companion plants will naturally protect and nourish your kale, ensuring that your entire garden flourishes.
Additional Resources
For additional information, here’s a helpful video on how to grow kale:
Frequently Asked Questions About Growing Kale
To help you get the most out of your kale-growing experience, here’s an extensive FAQ section that answers common questions related to how to grow kale, growing kale tips, planting kale seeds, kale care & maintenance, and more. This section is designed to provide valuable information to gardeners of all skill levels, ensuring you have the knowledge needed to cultivate a successful kale crop.
1. What is the best time to plant kale?
Kale is a cool-season crop that thrives in temperatures between 45°F and 75°F (7°C to 24°C). The best time to plant kale is in early spring, about 3-4 weeks before the last expected frost, or in late summer for a fall harvest. In mild climates, kale can also be planted in the fall and overwintered for a spring harvest.
2. How do I start growing kale from seeds?
To start planting kale seeds, sow them directly in the garden about 1/4 inch deep and 12-18 inches apart. For an earlier start, you can plant seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost. Transplant the seedlings when they are 4-6 inches tall and have developed a few sets of true leaves.
3. What are the best growing conditions for kale?
Kale prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates. It thrives in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Consistent moisture and cool temperatures are essential for optimal growth, making kale an excellent choice for spring and fall gardens.
4. How often should I water kale?
Kale requires about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week. Water deeply and consistently to keep the soil evenly moist. Mulching around the plants can help retain moisture, especially during dry spells. Avoid overwatering, as waterlogged soil can lead to root rot.
5. What type of fertilizer should I use for kale?
Kale is a heavy feeder, particularly of nitrogen. Use a balanced fertilizer or compost to enrich the soil before planting. During the growing season, side-dress with compost or apply a nitrogen-rich fertilizer every 4-6 weeks to promote healthy leaf growth.
6. How do I protect kale from pests?
Kale can be susceptible to pests like aphids, cabbage worms, and flea beetles. Regularly inspect your plants and use organic pest control methods, such as neem oil or insecticidal soap, to manage infestations. Companion planting with herbs like basil and dill can also help deter pests.
7. When is the best time to harvest kale?
Kale can be harvested at different stages, depending on your preference. For tender baby kale, harvest when the leaves are 2-3 inches long. For mature leaves, wait until the plants are 8-10 inches tall. Harvest the outer leaves first, leaving the inner leaves to continue growing.
8. How do I store kale after harvesting?
To store fresh kale, wrap the leaves in a damp paper towel and place them in a plastic bag or airtight container in the refrigerator. Kale stored this way will stay fresh for up to a week. For long-term storage, blanch and freeze the leaves, or dehydrate them for use in soups, stews, or as kale chips.
9. What is the best soil for growing kale?
Kale thrives in well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic matter. The ideal soil pH is between 6.0 and 7.5. If your soil is heavy clay or sandy, amend it with compost to improve its texture and nutrient content. A soil test can help determine if additional nutrients are needed.
10. Can I grow kale indoors?
Yes, kale can be grown indoors, especially during the winter months. Choose a container with good drainage and place it in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. If natural light is insufficient, use grow lights to supplement. Water regularly and ensure the soil stays moist but not soggy.
11. What are the benefits of companion planting with kale?
Companion planting can improve kale’s growth by repelling pests, enhancing soil fertility, and creating a balanced garden ecosystem. Beneficial companions include herbs like basil and dill, vegetables like beets and onions, and flowers like marigolds and nasturtiums. Avoid planting kale near other brassicas, strawberries, or tomatoes, as they can compete for nutrients or attract pests.
12. How do I improve kale’s flavour?
Kale’s flavour can be enhanced by growing it in cool conditions and harvesting after a light frost, which converts some of the plant’s starches into sugars, resulting in sweeter leaves. Additionally, regular watering and fertilization, along with proper harvesting techniques, can help produce more tender and flavourful kale.
13. What are the common diseases that affect kale, and how can I prevent them?
Kale can be affected by diseases such as downy mildew, black rot, and clubroot. To prevent these diseases, practice crop rotation, avoid overhead watering, and ensure proper spacing between plants to improve air circulation. If disease symptoms appear, remove and destroy the affected leaves or plants to prevent the spread.
14. Can I grow kale in containers?
Yes, kale grows well in containers. Choose a pot that is at least 12 inches in diameter and has good drainage. Use high-quality potting soil mixed with compost, and place the container in a location that receives full sun. Water regularly, and fertilize every 4-6 weeks to ensure healthy growth.
15. How do I maintain kale plants throughout the growing season?
Kale care & maintenance involves consistent watering, regular fertilization, mulching to retain moisture, and monitoring for pests and diseases. Prune any yellowing or damaged leaves to encourage new growth. If your kale plants start to bolt (produce flowers), remove the flower stalks to prolong the leaf harvest.
16. What are the best kale varieties to grow?
There are several kale varieties to choose from, each with unique characteristics:
- Blue Curled Scotch Kale: Hardy with blue-green, curled leaves and a mild flavour, great for salads and smoothies.
- Lacinato Kale: Also known as Tuscan or dinosaur kale, with dark green, bumpy leaves and a sweeter taste.
- Red Russian Kale: Features flat, frilly leaves with reddish-purple stems, known for its tenderness and cold tolerance.
17. How do I prepare kale for freezing?
To freeze kale, first wash and remove the tough stems. Blanch the leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then transfer them to an ice bath to cool. Dry the leaves thoroughly, then spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze. Once frozen, transfer the leaves to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen kale can be stored for up to 6 months.
18. How do I prevent kale from becoming bitter?
Kale can become bitter if grown in hot weather or if it is over-mature. To prevent bitterness, grow kale in cooler seasons, ensure consistent watering, and harvest the leaves when they are young and tender. A light frost can also sweeten the flavour of kale.
19. Can I grow kale as a perennial?
In milder climates, kale can be grown as a short-lived perennial, particularly if it is a variety like Lacinato. It can survive winter and produce new growth in the spring. To maintain kale as a perennial, mulch heavily in the fall to protect the roots and ensure the plants have adequate nutrition throughout the year.
20. How does kale respond to frost?
Kale is highly frost-tolerant and can even benefit from light frosts, which can enhance its flavour by converting some of the plant’s starches into sugars. In fact, many gardeners prefer to harvest kale after the first frost for a sweeter taste.
Kale is one of our favourite vegetables, we didn’t know how easy it is to grow and harvest. I love that you can cut some leaves off for stir fries, curries, smoothies, etc. and the kale keeps growing. To think that the first few years we tried to give it away, because I didn’t realize how versatile and nutritious it was!
Glad you discovered how great kale is! It really is so easy to grow kale, and it’s nutritious to eat.