Table of Contents
Kale is a hardy and nutritious leafy green that thrives in many garden zones, including Zone 7. Growing kale in your garden beds can provide fresh greens throughout the cooler months. Proper care and understanding of its growth habits will ensure a healthy and abundant harvest.
Choosing the Right Kale Varieties for Zone 7
Many kale varieties grow well in Zone 7, including:
- Curly Kale (e.g., Winterbor, Dwarf Blue Curled)
- Lacinato (Dinosaur Kale)
- Red Russian Kale
Choose varieties based on your taste preferences and the growing season. Lacinato and Red Russian tend to be more tender and flavorful, especially in cooler weather.
Planting Kale in Zone 7
In Zone 7, you can plant kale in early spring or late summer for a fall harvest. It prefers temperatures between 60°F and 75°F but can tolerate light frosts, which can improve flavor.
Start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost date or sow directly into garden beds once the soil warms up. Space plants about 12-18 inches apart to allow for growth and airflow.
Soil Preparation and Planting Tips
Kale prefers well-draining, fertile soil rich in organic matter. Amend your garden beds with compost or aged manure before planting. Aim for a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
Plant seeds or seedlings at the appropriate spacing, and water thoroughly to settle the soil. Mulching around the plants helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Care and Maintenance
Regular watering is essential, especially during dry spells. Kale needs about 1-1.5 inches of water per week. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer or compost tea every few weeks to promote healthy growth. Kale benefits from nitrogen-rich feeds, which encourage leafy growth.
Monitor for pests such as aphids, cabbage worms, and flea beetles. Use organic controls like neem oil or insecticidal soap if needed. Covering plants with row covers can also prevent pest damage.
Harvesting Kale
You can start harvesting kale leaves when they reach about 4-6 inches in length. Pick the outer leaves first, allowing the inner leaves to continue growing. Regular harvesting encourages new growth.
Kale is best harvested in the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon. Store harvested leaves in the refrigerator for up to a week or use immediately in recipes.
Additional Tips for Success
Protect kale from extreme cold with row covers or mulch if early or late frosts threaten. In Zone 7, kale can often be grown year-round with proper protection.
Rotate kale crops each year to prevent soil-borne diseases and pests. Companion planting with herbs like dill or aromatic plants can also help deter pests.