Field guide
When to plant kale in USDA Zones 1–4
In USDA Zones 1–4, the planner’s broad outdoor planting window for kale runs from April to May, with a second window from July to August. Kale takes 50–70 days from planting to first harvest.
Open plannerPlanting calendar for USDA Zones 1–4
- Spring planting
- April to May
- Fall planting
- July to August
- Days to harvest
- 50–70 days
- Water needs
- medium
What USDA Zones 1–4 do—and do not—tell you
These zones span average annual extreme minimum temperatures of roughly -60°F to -20°F. That is useful climate context, but it does not determine your exact frost dates. Check a local forecast or county Extension calendar before planting tender crops.
How to know when to harvest
- Leaves are about the size of your hand
- Lower leaves are mature and deep green
- Flavor sweetens after a light frost
Want a plan that accounts for your crops, growing method, equipment, and plant conditions? Open the free planner for a daily crop checklist and adaptive harvest forecast.
About this field guide
A local-first garden agent and neighborhood commons planner for food, water, tools, repair, clean energy, and resilient communication. Your profile and garden history stay on this device.