Kale is particularly popular in northern Germany and for good reason: the vitamin-rich vegetable can be harvested fresh from the field all winter long - in snow, ice and cold! Learn how to sow and care for kale in your garden below.
How do you sow kale in the garden?
To sow kale in the garden, prepare humus-rich, nutrient-rich soil and ensure a sunny location. Sow the seeds directly outdoors from the end of May, 2 cm deep and 40-50 cm apart. Water the sown area thoroughly.
The right seeds
Not all kale is the same. You will find around 10 different types of kale in stores, which differ not only in their appearance but also in their requirements and when they are harvested. So choose your seeds wisely and read the fine print! You can find more information about the most widespread varieties in our overview.
Where should kale be sown?
The location requirements also vary slightly depending on the variety, but in general kale prefers sunny locations with humus-rich, nutrient-rich soil. Kale doesn't like acidic soil, so if the soil is acidic, you should add some lime to the soil before sowing. Furthermore, a portion of compost gives the kale enough nutrients to thrive.
When should kale be sown?
Kale can be sown directly outdoors from the end of May, when frost is no longer expected. Alternatively, you can plant the seeds from the beginning of May, but that's not actually necessary.
Sowing kale outdoors step by step
- Dig up the soil well and add a few liters of compost
- Push holes about 2cm deep into the soil
- Keep a distance of 40 to 50cm from one hole to the next or sow more densely if you want to prick out
- Place the kale seeds in the holes and cover with soil
- Water the area thoroughly
Prefer kale on the windowsill
As an alternative to direct sowing, you can grow kale in the warm from the beginning of May. Proceed as follows:
- Fill growing bowls or egg cartons with growing soil
- Place the kale seeds about 2cm deep in the soil
- Water the peels thoroughly
- Place in a bright, warm location
- When the plants are around 5 to 10cm tall, they can be planted in the bed together with the bowl
