Kale
Brassica oleracea var. sabellica
Also known as: curly kale, dinosaur kale, lacinato kale
Extremely cold-hardy green that sweetens after frost. Harvest outer leaves for continuous production.
Growing Requirements
Planting Schedule
Start Indoors
4–6 weeks before last frost
Direct Sow (Spring)
3–4 weeks before last frost
Transplant Outdoors
-3–9 weeks after last frost
Fall Sow
10–12 weeks before first frost
Germination
5–10 days
Days to Harvest
50–70 days
Zone Suitability
USDA Hardiness Zones
Zones 2–11
Survives temps to 10°F. Flavor improves after frost. Biennial—flowers in second year.
Companion Plants
Good Companions (7)
Nasturtium
Tropaeolum majus
Trap crop that lures aphids away from kale
Confidence: High
Garlic
Allium sativum
Deters aphids and cabbage worms with allium scent
Confidence: Medium
Onion
Allium cepa
Allium scent deters cabbage moths from kale
Confidence: Medium
Marigold
Tagetes spp.
Deters pests and nematodes near kale
Confidence: Medium
Dill
Anethum graveolens
Attracts beneficial insects that prey on kale pests
Confidence: Medium
Thyme
Thymus vulgaris
Aromatic oils deter cabbage moths
Confidence: Medium
Beet
Beta vulgaris
Compatible root depths and nutrient needs
Confidence: Medium