When to Plant Collards in Sydney — Warm 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: 19.3°C (optimal range: 8–30°C) ✓ Ready to plant
How to Grow Collards in Warm Temperate Australia
When to Plant
February-May (autumn) and August-October (spring). Year-round in mild microclimates.
- 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)
Warm Temperate Growing Tips for Collards
Recommended Varieties
- Georgia Southern
- Vates
- Champion
- Morris Heading
Key Challenges
- Less commercially available than kale
- Caterpillars in warmer months
Pro Tips
- Grows well in Sydney climate year-round with variety selection
- An excellent kale alternative with milder flavour
- Harvest lower leaves regularly, leaving top growth to continue producing
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 Warm Temperate Zones
Organic prevention: Net from planting. Companion plant with herbs. Inspect leaf undersides regularly.
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