When to Plant Kale in Zone 5
In USDA zone 5, 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.
Kale planting calendar for USDA Zone 5
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. Dates use USDA zone 5a average frost dates. Set your ZIP in HomeSown for dates tuned to your exact location.
What zone 5 means for kale
Average last spring frost
May 5
Average first fall frost
October 1
Those two dates are what set the schedule above. Zone 5 gives you roughly 149 frost-free days, and kale need about 55 to 60 days depending on the variety to mature.
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 →