How To Grow Kale In South Africa

Kale
Kale grows best in fertile, well-composted soil that is slightly acidic. Full sun is ideal, but plants also tolerate partial shade. Space seedlings 45-50cm apart and in rows 60cm apart. Regular, plentiful watering is essential for sweet and tender leaves.

Below is How To Grow Kale In South Africa

Kale Growing Guide

Crop Rotation Group

Brassicas (Cabbage family) ●

Soil

Good soil, firm, preferably with plenty of well-rotted compost dug in.

Position

Full sun.

Frost tolerant

Yes.

Feeding

Not usually required.

Companions

Beetroot, Celery, Cucumber, Marigold, Nasturtium, Rhubarb, Dill, Mint, Thyme, Chamomile, Catnip, Tansy and Buckwheat.

Spacing

Single Plants: 40cm (1′ 3″) each way (minimum)
Rows: 35cm (1′ 1″) with 45cm (1′ 5″) row gap (minimum)

Sow and Plant

In frost, areas sow early spring undercover. Plant out early summer. In frost-free areas, sow directly or transplant in spring.
Our Garden Planner can produce a personalized calendar of when to sow, plant, and harvest for your area.

Notes

Surround stem with a 10cm mat with a slit cut into it for the stem to prevent cabbage root fly from destroying the roots. Use fine mesh or fleece over the summer to prevent butterflies from laying eggs on the underside of leaves – caterpillars can destroy these plants. Protect against birds that can damage the young seedlings and overwintering crops. May need supportive canes during the winter.

Harvesting

Harvest leaves gradually from the center of each plant while they are still tender. New leaves will grow and harvesting can extend into the following spring.

Planting and Harvesting Calendar

Want to find out when you can plant this in your garden? We use historical data from your local weather station to calculate the best range of planting dates for your location (see example planting calendar below).

How do you grow kale for beginners?

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How to Plant Kale

If you’re planting seeds, sow ¼ to ½ inch deep into well-drained, light soil.

After about 2 weeks, thin the seedlings so that they are spaced 8 to 12 inches apart.

If you’re setting out young plants (transplants), plant them at the depth at which they are growing in the container.