Kale

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.