How to grow Kale in the UK
Brassica oleracea
Kale (Brassica oleracea) is a vegetable that grows well in UK gardens. Net against pigeons and cabbage white butterflies. Cavolo nero (Tuscan kale) is the prettiest. This guide covers when and how to sow Kale, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
When to sow & grow Kale
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan Harvest | Feb Harvest | Mar Harvest | Apr Sow | May | Jun Plant | Jul | Aug Harvest | Sep Harvest | Oct Harvest | Nov Harvest | Dec Harvest |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Firm, fertile soil — lime if acid
- Soil pH
- 6.5–7.5
- Position
- Open, sunny site
- Sowing depth
- 1.5 cm
- Spacing
- 45 cm apart
- Sowing
- Sow Apr–Jun in a seedbed, transplant firmly
- Growing
- Firm soil and net against pigeons; very hardy
- Harvest & upkeep
- Pick lower leaves through autumn/winter; flavour sweetens after frost
- Watch for
- Cabbage white caterpillars, pigeons, club root, whitefly
Companion planting for Kale
Grows well with:
Keep apart from:
Add Kale to your free 12-month plan and get watering & sowing reminders — no sign-up needed.
Kale FAQs
When should I sow Kale in the UK?
In the UK, sow Kale in April. Sowing across these months gives the plant the right soil temperature and day length to establish well.
What grows well with Kale?
Kale grows well alongside Beetroot, Celery, Dill, French Marigold, Pot Marigold, Mint. Good companions can deter pests, attract pollinators or make better use of space.
What should you not plant near Kale?
Keep Kale away from Strawberry, Beef Tomato, Cherry Tomato, which can compete with it or share pests and diseases.
How much sun does Kale need?
Kale prefers full sun (6+ hrs direct).
When is Kale ready to harvest?
Kale is typically ready to harvest in January, February, March, August, September, October, November, December in the UK.
Is Kale easy to grow?
Easy — good for beginners. Net against pigeons and cabbage white butterflies. Cavolo nero (Tuscan kale) is the prettiest.