Kale & Collards
McKinstry Farms • Tips from Farmer Will
Plant Type: Biennial grown as Annual
Season: Spring to Fall
Light
Kale thrives in full sun to partial shade, but it grows best with at least 6 hours of sunlight each day.
Water
Kale prefers even moisture, so water regularly — about 1–1.5 inches per week.
Be sure the soil drains well to avoid soggy roots.
Farmer Will's Tip:
"Kale loves cool weather and even moisture. Give it a drink early in the morning and let it grow strong!"
Temperature
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Best growth between 55–75°F.
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Kale can tolerate light frost, and in fact, it tastes sweeter after a light frost.
Soil and Fertilizer
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Kale needs rich, well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter.
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Fertilize lightly with compost or a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Care Tips
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Harvest outer leaves as needed, leaving the center of the plant to keep producing.
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Keep kale clean and avoid pest buildup by regularly inspecting the leaves.
Common Problems
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Aphids: Check undersides of leaves for these tiny pests.
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Leaf Curl: Caused by overwatering or stress — adjust watering schedule accordingly.
Good to Know
Kale is packed with nutrients like vitamins A, C, and K, and it's even sweeter after being kissed by a frost.