Growing Kale: The Versatile Super Green

Kale is a nutritious green that’s great for adding color and health benefits to all kinds of dishes.

It boasts a mildly earthy flavor that enhances salads, smoothies, sautés, and even soups.

Here is a guide on how you can grow it in your own garden.

When to plant

You can use this easy tool I have made to find your USDA hardiness zone and Typical last frost dates based on the zip code where you live:

Live seedlings to plant direct

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This 3-pack includes heirloom plants, each 5-10 inches tall, ready to thrive outdoors in full sunlight. Known for their beautiful green-bluish hue and pet-friendly nature, they are perfect for spring or summer planting. At $29.99 (or $10 per plant), this set has a user rating of 3.7/5 based on 26 reviews.

You can find the Blue Curled Vates Live Kale Plants at Amazon.

Planting

Kale thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It prefers cooler temperatures, with optimal growth in temps ranging from 60 to 65°F (15 to 18°C).

Soil Preparation

This nutrient-dense green grows best in rich, well-drained soil that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged. Ideal pH levels range from 6.0 to 7.5 for optimal nutrient availability.

To enhance soil fertility and drainage, I integrate compost, typically mixing 50% compost with 50% garden soil, which has proven effective for my kale crops!

The Importance of Good Soil

Before starting to grow, it’s essential to assess the condition of the soil in your garden. The best soil is a blend of mineral-rich dirt and organic matter. In my garden, I compost as much as possible to enrich the soil with nutrients. I use both hot composting for food scraps and cold composting for organic garden waste.

If you don’t have the time or space to compost, you can purchase compost from garden centers or use community composting programs. Learn more about community composting here: Learn more about community composting here.

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Hot Composting bin

One insulated compost bin designed for cold regions is the Exaco Aerobin 400. It holds 113 gallons and doesn’t need turning thanks to its patented “lung” system. Plus, the built-in reservoir collects compost tea, which can be used as fertilizer.

The Exaco Aerobin 400 is available for $343.79. Check the latest price on Amazon.

Where I live I get a large tax refund every year for composting may own organic waste. Due to this saving I was able to break even on the cost at only two year use. I recommend you to check with your local government if you can receive any tax refund.

How to Grow From Seed

For the best results, start kale seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date.

This is my typical procedure when growing from seed:

Tray seeding

Start by filling the cells of your growing tray with a seed-starting mix—a lightweight soil that provides the right conditions for seeds to sprout. Gently place one or two tomato seeds into each cell, pressing them about a quarter-inch deep into the soil.

Grow medium

I prefer compressed coco coir blocs for germinating seeds. Then I can have an easy to use grow medium ready at any time

Check Amazon here for latest prices.

I use these easy to use 12 Cell trays for germinating:

Right now you can get a 5 pack for $11.99 at Amazon, and you can check the latest prices and buy the trays here.

 After planting, lightly mist the soil with water using a spray bottle to avoid disturbing the seeds. Place the lid on the tray to maintain humidity, which speeds up germination.

Space each plant 12-18 inches apart to encourage healthy growth and ensure ample yield for harvest. Kale plants can be harvested leaf by leaf during the entire growing season, allowing for a steady supply of greens.

As kale is a biennial plant, it can provide continuous harvesting when managed properly. I source my seeds from trustworthy garden centers, typically choosing organic varieties suited for my local conditions.

I utilize raised beds to optimize my growing experience, making adjustments as needed. While kale is hardy and can tolerate cooler temperatures, mulching can further protect them during harsher weather.

Watering and Feeding

To keep your kale thriving, it’s crucial to maintain consistent watering throughout its growth period. Kale requires regular moisture while avoiding overwatering, which may lead to root rot. If your soil lacks nutrients, applying a balanced fertilizer during the growing season can enhance plant health.

You can selectively harvest the leaves as they mature, allowing for a continuous yield while encouraging new growth throughout the season.

Care and Maintenance

1. Keep the soil evenly moist without allowing waterlogging.
2. Shield your plants from severe weather with protective covers when necessary.
3. Remain vigilant against pests like aphids and cabbage worms, addressing any issues swiftly.
4. Regularly harvest mature leaves to stimulate further production and prolong the growing season.

Harvesting

The ideal time to begin harvesting kale is when the leaves are tender and vibrant, typically when they’re young and around 6-10 inches tall.

Its best to harvesting the outer leaves first while letting the inner leaves continue to grow, ensuring a continuous supply of fresh kale throughout the season.

This coming year, I plan to explore various kale varieties, eager to discover which ones thrive best in my garden conditions.

Kale can be enjoyed raw in salads, sautéed, or blended into smoothies, making it a versatile addition to any meal.

One of my favorite recipes is a kale salad with sliced almonds, cranberries, and a light dressing. After marinating for a little while, the flavors meld beautifully, creating a refreshing and satisfying dish.

The leftovers are perfect for adding to soups or stir-fries, ensuring that every leaf is used and I fully enjoy the fruits of my labor.