When to Plant Kale in Zone 5
In USDA zone 5a, start seeds indoors around March 3, transplant or plant outdoors April 7 to June 1, and expect your first harvest around June 1. Zone 5 also has a fall planting window opening around August 13. (5a shown here — see 5a and 5b dates separately below.)
Kale planting calendar for USDA Zone 5a
Average last spring frost
May 5
Average first fall frost
October 1
spring planting
Start seeds indoors
Mar 3
Transplant outdoors
Apr 7
Projected first harvest
Jun 1
fall planting
Start seeds indoors
Jul 9
Transplant outdoors
Aug 13
Projected first harvest
Oct 7
spring planting
fall planting
Most kale mature in about 55 to 60 days depending on the variety, needing roughly 149 frost-free days in zone 5a.
Kale planting calendar for USDA Zone 5b
Average last spring frost
April 30
Average first fall frost
October 5
spring planting
Start seeds indoors
Feb 26
Transplant outdoors
Apr 2
Projected first harvest
May 27
fall planting
Start seeds indoors
Jul 13
Transplant outdoors
Aug 17
Projected first harvest
Oct 11
spring planting
fall planting
Most kale mature in about 55 to 60 days depending on the variety, needing roughly 158 frost-free days in zone 5b.
Not sure whether you're in 5a or 5b? Set your ZIP in HomeSown for dates tuned to your exact location.
Varieties to grow
3 varieties of kale in the HomeSown library. Tap any for its full grow guide.
Common problems with kale
What to watch for, with identification and treatment for each
🌱 Grow kale with a calendar built for your exact yard
HomeSown turns your ZIP code into a personalized planting calendar, watering reminders, and pest help. Free to start.
Start your free garden →