When to Plant Collards in Melbourne — Cool Temperate Guide
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Collards (also called collard greens or borekale) are a non-heading brassica producing large, flat, dark green leaves on sturdy stems. More heat-tolerant than cabbage and kale, and equally cold-hardy, making them one of the most versatile brassica greens for Australian gardens. The flavour is mild and slightly sweet, improving after frost exposure. Underutilised in Australia but gaining popularity.
Planting Calendar
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S/T/D | S/T/D | S/T | T | — | — | — | S | S/T/D | S/T/D | S/T/D | S/T/D |
S = Seed Tray T = Transplant D = Direct Sow
Current Growing Conditions
Soil temperature: 21.9°C (optimal range: 8–30°C) ✓ Ready to plant
How to Grow Collards in Cool Temperate Australia
When to Plant
September-April. Frost hardy once established. Can overwinter in Melbourne.
- Soil
- Rich, well-drained soil amended with plenty of compost and aged manure. Tolerates heavier clay soils better than most brassicas.
- pH Range
- 6.0-6.8
- Sunlight
- Full sun (6+ hours). Tolerates part shade, especially in warmer zones. Minimum 3 hours direct sun.
- Spacing
- 60cm apart, 75cm between rows
- Watering
- Deep watering 2-3 times per week. Consistent moisture produces tender leaves. Drought stress toughens leaves and may trigger bolting. Drip irrigation ideal.
Companion plants: Onion, Garlic, Celery, Dill, Chamomile, Nasturtium (trap crop)
Avoid planting near: Strawberry, Tomato, Other brassicas in succession (disease buildup)
Cool Temperate Growing Tips for Collards
Recommended Varieties
- Vates
- Champion
- Georgia Southern
Key Challenges
- Slow growth in cold winters
- Less productive December-February in heat
Pro Tips
- Collards handle frost well - flavour sweetens after cold snaps
- Plant in September for summer harvest, February for winter harvest
- Excellent for replacing kale in the garden
Harvesting Collards
When ready: Leaves are large (20-30cm), dark green, and firm. Harvest from the bottom of the plant upwards. Leaves should snap cleanly when bent.
How to harvest: Cut-and-come-again: snap or cut lower leaves, leaving the growing tip and upper leaves to continue producing. Never harvest more than 1/3 of leaves at once.
Common Collards Pests in Cool Temperate Zones
Organic prevention: Net from planting. Companion plant with herbs. Inspect leaf undersides regularly.
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