New Jersey’s coastal influence allows kale planting in early spring and again in late August for fall. Finding the best time to plant kale in new jersey depends on your local frost dates and the variety you choose. This guide gives you exact timing, step-by-step methods, and practical tips for a bumper crop.
Best Time To Plant Kale In New Jersey
Kale loves cool weather. It actually tastes sweeter after a light frost. In New Jersey, you have two main planting windows: spring and late summer for fall harvest. The key is to avoid the heat of July and August when kale turns bitter and tough.
Spring Planting Window
Start kale seeds indoors 4 to 6 weeks before your last spring frost. For most of New Jersey, the last frost falls between mid-April and early May. So, start seeds indoors in early to mid-March.
- Northern NJ (Zone 6a-6b): Last frost around May 1-10. Start seeds indoors mid-March.
- Central NJ (Zone 6b-7a): Last frost around April 20-30. Start seeds indoors early March.
- Coastal/Southern NJ (Zone 7a-7b): Last frost around April 10-20. Start seeds indoors late February.
Transplant seedlings outdoors 2 to 4 weeks before your last frost date. Kale can handle light frosts down to about 20°F. For a direct spring sowing, put seeds in the ground 3 to 4 weeks before the last frost.
Fall Planting Window
For a fall harvest, plant kale in late summer. The goal is to have mature plants before hard freezes hit. Count back 8 to 10 weeks from your first fall frost date.
- Northern NJ: First frost around October 1-15. Plant seeds outdoors mid-August.
- Central NJ: First frost around October 15-25. Plant seeds outdoors late August.
- Coastal/Southern NJ: First frost around November 1-15. Plant seeds outdoors early September.
Fall-planted kale often tastes better because it matures in cooler weather. It can survive under row covers or light snow well into December.
Factors That Affect Planting Time
Your Local Microclimate
New Jersey has three main growing zones: 6a in the northwest mountains, 6b across most of the north and central areas, and 7a to 7b along the coast and southern counties. Check your specific zone using the USDA map. A garden near the ocean may stay warmer longer in fall, allowing later plantings.
Kale Variety Selection
Different kale types have different cold tolerance and growth speed. Choose varieties that match your planting window.
- Dwarf Siberian: Very cold-hardy, great for fall. Matures in 50-60 days.
- Lacinato (Dinosaur): Tolerates heat better than most. Good for spring and fall. Matures in 55-65 days.
- Red Russian: Sweetens after frost. Matures in 50-60 days. Best for fall.
- Vates Blue Curled: Compact, cold-tolerant. Matures in 55-65 days.
- Scarlet: Ornamental and edible. Matures in 60-70 days.
For spring, choose faster-maturing varieties so you harvest before summer heat. For fall, any cold-hardy type works well.
Soil Temperature
Kale seeds germinate best when soil temperature is between 45°F and 75°F. In spring, the soil might still be cold. Use a soil thermometer to check. If soil is below 40°F, wait or start indoors. In fall, soil is warm enough, but keep it moist for germination.
Step-By-Step Planting Guide
1. Prepare The Soil
Kale needs rich, well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Test your soil a few weeks before planting. Add compost or aged manure to improve fertility. Work it in 6 to 8 inches deep.
- Clear the area of weeds and rocks.
- Spread 2-3 inches of compost over the bed.
- Mix compost into the top 6 inches of soil.
- Rake the bed smooth.
2. Start Seeds Indoors (Spring Only)
For spring planting, starting indoors gives you a head start. Use seed-starting mix in small pots or trays.
- Sow seeds ¼ inch deep.
- Keep soil moist but not soggy.
- Place under grow lights or in a sunny window.
- Thin to one seedling per pot after true leaves appear.
- Harden off seedlings for 5-7 days before transplanting.
3. Direct Sow Or Transplant
For spring, transplant hardened seedlings 12-18 inches apart in rows 18-24 inches apart. For fall, direct sow seeds ½ inch deep, then thin to 12 inches apart once seedlings have 4 leaves.
Water well after planting. Mulch around plants to keep soil cool and moist.
4. Care During Growth
Kale needs consistent moisture, about 1-1.5 inches of water per week. Water at the base to avoid leaf diseases. Fertilize every 3-4 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer or side-dress with compost.
- Watch for cabbage worms, aphids, and flea beetles. Use row covers or insecticidal soap.
- Remove yellow or damaged leaves to improve air flow.
- Harvest outer leaves first, leaving the center to grow.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Planting Too Late In Spring
If you plant kale in late May or June, it will bolt (go to seed) quickly in the heat. The leaves become bitter and tough. Stick to the early spring window.
Planting Too Early In Fall
Planting kale in mid-July for fall can expose young plants to extreme heat. They may struggle and produce poor leaves. Wait until mid-August or later, depending on your zone.
Overcrowding
Kale needs space for air circulation. Crowded plants are more prone to disease and produce smaller leaves. Follow spacing guidelines.
Ignoring Frost Dates
Using average frost dates is a start, but watch local weather. A late spring frost can kill tender transplants. Cover plants with row cloth if frost is predicted.
Extending The Harvest Season
You can harvest kale from early spring through late fall with careful planning. Use these strategies:
- Succession planting: Sow a new batch every 2-3 weeks during spring and fall windows.
- Cold frames or hoop houses: Protect fall kale into winter. Kale can survive down to 10°F with protection.
- Mulch heavily: A thick layer of straw or leaves insulates roots and extends harvest.
- Harvest regularly: Picking outer leaves encourages new growth and delays bolting.
In mild winters along the Jersey Shore, kale may survive all winter under a cold frame. In northern areas, it will die back but can be harvested until heavy snow.
Regional Tips For New Jersey Gardeners
Northern New Jersey (Sussex, Warren, Morris Counties)
Higher elevation means cooler summers and earlier frosts. Plant spring kale as soon as soil can be worked, usually early April. For fall, plant by mid-August. Use cold-hardy varieties like Winterbor or Red Russian.
Central New Jersey (Middlesex, Mercer, Monmouth Counties)
Moderate climate with reliable seasons. Spring planting in late March to early April works well. Fall planting in late August is ideal. Both spring and fall harvests are productive.
Coastal And Southern New Jersey (Atlantic, Cape May, Cumberland Counties)
Warmer winters and longer growing seasons. Spring planting can start as early as mid-March. Fall planting can be delayed until early September. Kale may survive most winters with minimal protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I plant kale in New Jersey in July?
It’s not recommended. July heat stresses young kale plants, causing bitterness and bolting. Wait until mid-August for fall planting.
How late can I plant kale in New Jersey for fall harvest?
In southern NJ, you can plant as late as early September. In northern areas, aim for mid-August. Check your first frost date and count back 8-10 weeks.
Does kale need full sun in New Jersey?
Kale grows best in full sun (6-8 hours daily). In hot summers, partial afternoon shade can help prevent bolting.
What is the best kale variety for New Jersey’s climate?
Lacinato (Dinosaur) kale is very reliable. It tolerates both heat and cold well. Red Russian and Dwarf Siberian are also excellent choices.
Can I grow kale year-round in New Jersey?
With cold frames or hoop houses, you can harvest kale through winter in most parts of the state. Without protection, kale typically dies back in January but may regrow in early spring.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Bitter Leaves
Bitter kale is usually caused by heat stress or lack of water. Harvest in the morning after a cool night. Water consistently and provide shade during heat waves. Fall-planted kale is naturally sweeter.
Yellow Leaves
Yellowing can indicate nitrogen deficiency, overwatering, or pests. Check soil moisture and fertilize with a nitrogen-rich source like fish emulsion. Inspect for aphids or cabbage worms.
Stunted Growth
Poor soil, root competition from weeds, or insufficient light can stunt kale. Ensure soil is rich and well-drained. Thin plants to proper spacing. Remove weeds regularly.
Pest Infestations
Cabbage worms, flea beetles, and aphids are common. Use floating row covers to prevent pests. Handpick worms. Spray neem oil for aphids. Encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs.
Harvesting And Storing Kale
When To Harvest
Start harvesting outer leaves when plants have at least 10-12 leaves. Leaves should be about the size of your hand. For baby kale, harvest entire plants when 4-6 inches tall.
How To Harvest
- Use clean scissors or shears.
- Cut outer leaves at the base, leaving the inner rosette.
- Harvest from the bottom up.
- Never remove more than one-third of the plant at once.
Storage Tips
Kale keeps in the refrigerator for 5-7 days. Wash and dry leaves thoroughly, then store in a plastic bag with a paper towel. For longer storage, blanch and freeze kale for up to 6 months.
Final Thoughts
Timing is everything for kale in New Jersey. Plant too early in spring and frost may kill seedlings. Plant too late and summer heat ruins the flavor. Stick to the two main windows: early spring (March-April) and late summer (mid-August to early September).
Watch your local weather, not just the calendar. Use row covers for unexpected frosts. Choose varieties suited to your zone. With the right timing and care, you will enjoy fresh, sweet kale from spring through late fall.
Remember that the best time to plant kale in new jersey is not a single date but a range that fits your specific location. A little planning goes a long way toward a successful harvest.