Kale Growing Guide

Brassica oleracea var. sabellica

Crop Rotation Group

Brassicas (Cabbage family) ●

Soil

Fertile, well-drained soil enriched with plenty of well rotted compost.

Position

Full sun.

Frost tolerant

Yes.

Feeding

Not usually required.

Spacing

Single Plants: 40cm (1' 3") each way (minimum)
Rows: 35cm (1' 1") with 45cm (1' 5") row gap (minimum)

Sow and Plant

Sow in pots under cover in spring. Plant out when thumb sized.
Our Garden Planner can produce a personalized calendar of when to sow, plant and harvest for your area.

Notes

Surround stem with a 10cm (4 inch) mat with a slit cut into it for the stem to prevent cabbage root fly from destroying the roots. Use fine mesh or fleece over the summer to prevent butterflies laying eggs on the underside of leaves - caterpillars can destroy these plants. Protect against birds which can damage the young seedlings and overwintering crops. May need supportive canes during the winter.

Harvesting

Harvest leaves gradually from the centre of each plant while they are still tender. New leaves will grow and harvesting can extend from late autumn right through to the next spring.