Growing Tips

Planting

Plant rows 2’ - 3’ apart with plants 8” - 16” apart. Seeding rate should be approximately 2 to 4 pounds per acre. Preplant fertilizer should be 60 pounds per acre of nitrogen, 0 - 60 pounds of phosphorus, and 0 - 200 pounds of potassium per acre depending on soil test results.

Planting Guidelines - Kale
Approximate Seeds per Pound:
124,000 - 136,000
Seeding Rate per Acre by Weight:
1.9 - 2.9 oz
Seeding Rate per Acre in M (1,000):
15.2 - 24.2 M
Seeding Rate Seeds per 1,000 foot of Row:
667 - 800
Seed or Plant Spacing In Row:
15 - 18"
Seed or Plant Spacing Between Rows:
18 - 24"
Seed or Plant Spacing Depth:
.25 - .5"
Recommended Soil Temperature:
60 - 75°F
Days to Germination:
6 - 10
Management

Sidedress 30 - 60 pounds of nitrogen after transplants are established. Use crop rotation to help combat disease pressure. Scout fields for disease, mildew, and insects.

Harvest

Kale can be harvested three ways: whole plant, bunched leaves, or “stripped” leaves. “Stripped” kale is pre-packaged for fresh market in all methods; yellow or damaged leaves must be removed before packing.

Storage

Leafy greens can be stored close to 32ºF. At this temperature, they can be held for 10 - 14 days.