When to Plant Kale in Zone 8
In USDA zone 8a, start seeds indoors around January 28, transplant or plant outdoors March 4 to April 28, and expect your first harvest around April 28. Zone 8 also has a fall planting window opening around September 22. (8a shown here — see 8a and 8b dates separately below.)
Kale planting calendar for USDA Zone 8a
Average last spring frost
April 1
Average first fall frost
November 10
spring planting
Start seeds indoors
Jan 28
Transplant outdoors
Mar 4
Projected first harvest
Apr 28
fall planting
Start seeds indoors
Aug 18
Transplant outdoors
Sep 22
Projected first harvest
Nov 16
spring planting
fall planting
Most kale mature in about 55 to 60 days depending on the variety, needing roughly 223 frost-free days in zone 8a.
Kale planting calendar for USDA Zone 8b
Average last spring frost
March 20
Average first fall frost
November 20
spring planting
Start seeds indoors
Jan 16
Transplant outdoors
Feb 20
Projected first harvest
Apr 16
fall planting
Start seeds indoors
Aug 28
Transplant outdoors
Oct 2
Projected first harvest
Nov 26
spring planting
fall planting
Most kale mature in about 55 to 60 days depending on the variety, needing roughly 245 frost-free days in zone 8b.
Not sure whether you're in 8a or 8b? 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 →