Kale

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Pest management

Kale is in the cabbage family, and pests are similar across the family. This group is also known as cole crops or brassicas and includes broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower.

The Basics

Kale, a member of the cabbage family, is a cool-season vegetable grown for its leaves. Leaves taste sweeter after exposure to cold temperatures.

When to plant

Transplant in February to April, possibly May or September to October, possibly August or November, 8 to 12 inches apart.
Direct seed in March to April, possibly February or May, or September to October, possibly August or November.
If growing your own seedlings, start the seeds 4 weeks before you want to plant.

Harvest window

Harvest lower leaves when they reach 8 to 10 inches in size.
In general, smaller leaves are more tender.

Recommended Varieties for Santa Clara County*

Dazzling Blue, OP	This striking kale features blue-green savoyed leaves with dramatic pink midribs. Upright growth. New from Wild Garden Seed. 24–30 inches tall. Plant 12–18 inches apart.
Lacinato, OP	Heirloom Italian variety is a gorgeous, striking plant with delicious dark blue-green leaves. 24–36 inches tall. Plant 18–24 inches apart.
Premier Blend, OP	You'll get a beautiful variety of colors, textures, sizes, and flavors with this special five kale blend (Dwarf Blue Curled, Improved Dwarf Siberian, Lacinato, Premier, and Red Russian). 24–30 inches tall. Plant 12–18 inches apart.
Red Russian, OP	Tasty and ornamental kale with red veins will prolifically produce sweet, tender young leaves all winter long. 24–30 inches tall. Plant 12–18 inches apart.
Tronchuda Beira, Hybrid	Portuguese variety. Paddle-shaped, deep green leaves with mild, rich flavor. 24–30 inches tall. Plant 12–18 inches apart.
Tuscan Baby Leaf, OP	More tender texture and sweeter flavor than mature kale leaves make this wonderful for salads. Plant close together and harvest when just 4–5 inches tall, leaving crown to regrow for multiple harvests.
Wild Garden Frills, OP	Mix of mild and delicious Siberian heirloom kales Wild Red and Green Russian. Blue-green frilled leaves with red or white veins. Plant 18–24 inches apart.