Kale Growing Guide

Crop Rotation Group

Brassicas (Cabbage family) ●

Soil

Good soil, firm, preferably with plenty of well rotted compost dug in.

Position

Full sun.

Frost tolerant

Yes.

Feeding

Not usually required.

Companions

Dill, Mint, Thyme, Chamomile, Catnip, Tansy, Buckwheat, Marigold and Nasturtium.

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 for early sowings or during cold weather. Plant out when thumb sized. Can be direct sown as well.
Our Garden Planner can produce a personalised calendar of when to sow, plant and harvest for your area.

Notes

Use fine mesh or exclusion netting over the warmer months 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 stakes 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/fall right through to the next spring.