Kale Growing Guide Crop Rotation Group Brassicas (Cabbage family) ● Soil Good soil, firm, preferably with plenty of well rotted compost dug in. Position Full sun. Frost tolerant Yes. Feeding Not usually required. Companions Beetroot, Celery, Cucumber, Marigold, Nasturtium, Rhubarb, Dill, Mint, Thyme, Chamomile, Catnip, Tansy and Buckwheat. Spacing Single Plants: 40cm (1' 3") each way (minimum) Rows: 35cm (1' 1") with 45cm (1' 5") row gap (minimum) Sow and Plant In frost areas sow early spring under cover. Plant out early summer. In frost free areas, sow directly or transplant in spring. Our Garden Planner can produce a personalised calendar of when to sow, plant and harvest for your area. Notes Surround stem with a 10cm mat with a slit cut into it for the stem to prevent cabbage root fly from destroying the roots. Use fine mesh or fleece over the summer to prevent butterflies laying eggs on the underside of leaves - caterpillars can destroy these plants. Protect against birds which can damage the young seedlings and overwintering crops. May need supportive canes during the winter. Harvesting Harvest leaves gradually from the centre of each plant while they are still tender. New leaves will grow and harvesting can extend into the following spring. Planting and Harvesting Calendar < Back to All Plants Pests which Affect Kale Aphid, Cabbage Aphids (General) Cabbage Moth Cabbage White Butterfly Diamondback Moth Flea Beetle Slug Snail Plant Diseases which Affect Kale Brassica Alternaria Leaf Spot Brassica Black Rot Brassica Club Root Brassica Downy Mildew