Crop guide / Leafy green

How to grow
Kale.

A sturdy leafy crop for cool shoulders of the season.

Check my local planting window ↓
Seasoncool
Sun6+ hours
Plant spacing18 in
Container depth12 in

Start here

Plant seedlings or direct sow before hard summer heat.

Keep it going

Harvest lower leaves often and check for caterpillars.

Layout notes

Plan for the whole plant.

Leave about 24 inches between rows. The listed spacing is a starter distance for common varieties, so check seed packets or plant labels if your cultivar says otherwise.

Open spacing calculator ↗

Practical nearby crops

Good starter neighbors for kale.

Root vegetableBeetsA dual-purpose cool crop for roots and edible greens.HerbChivesA compact perennial herb for borders and containers.Leafy greenLettuceA quick cool-season crop that is forgiving in beds and containers.

This page is a maintained starter guide, not a diagnosis or local planting-date guarantee. Check your local Extension service and plant label before making seasonal or treatment decisions.

Find local Extension guidance ↗