When to Plant Kale in Sydney — Warm Temperate Guide
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Kale is the toughest and most productive leafy green brassica, available in curly, flat (Tuscan/cavolo nero), and red Russian forms. It tolerates frost (which sweetens its flavour), handles some heat, and produces for 6-12 months with regular harvesting. A nutritional powerhouse and genuinely easy to grow compared to heading brassicas.
Planting Calendar
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S/T/D | S/T/D | S/T/D | T | — | — | — | S/D | 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: 5–30°C) ✓ Ready to plant
How to Grow Kale in Warm Temperate Australia
When to Plant
February-May (autumn) and August-October (spring). Can produce year-round in mild Sydney microclimates.
- Soil
- Rich, well-drained soil with plenty of compost and aged manure. Tolerates a wider range of soils than heading brassicas.
- pH Range
- 5.5-6.8
- Sunlight
- Full sun in cool climates. Part shade (afternoon) in subtropical and warmer zones.
- Spacing
- 50cm apart, 60cm between rows
- Watering
- Deep watering 2-3 times per week. Consistent moisture produces tender leaves. Tolerates some drought but leaves toughen. Avoid overhead watering.
Companion plants: Onion, Garlic, Celery, Beetroot, Dill, Chamomile
Avoid planting near: Strawberry, Tomato, Other brassicas in immediate succession
Warm Temperate Growing Tips for Kale
Recommended Varieties
- Nero di Toscana
- Curly Blue Scotch
- Red Russian
- Dwarf Green Curled
Key Challenges
- Caterpillars from spring
- Powdery mildew in warm humid spells
- May need replacing after summer
Pro Tips
- Autumn planting gives the longest productive season
- Both Tuscan and curly types grow superbly in Sydney climate
- One of the easiest and most rewarding crops to grow in this zone
Harvesting Kale
When ready: Leaves are large enough to eat (15-20cm long for baby kale, 30cm+ for mature leaves). Dark green with firm texture. Lower leaves harvested first.
How to harvest: Snap or cut lower/outer leaves at the stem. Leave the growing tip and upper leaves to continue producing. Never harvest more than 1/3 of the plant at once. Twist and pull downward for clean removal.
Common Kale Pests in Warm Temperate Zones
Organic prevention: Net from planting. Companion plant with strong herbs. Regular inspection.
Supermarket Price
Current average retail: $15.37/kg (range: $12.56–$18.00)
Grow your own and save on grocery bills.
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