🌱 Kale 'Cavolo Nero'

Sowing window (UK)	April to July
Minimum soil temperature	5°C at seed depth
Spacing	60 cm apart
Days to germination	10 days
Days to harvest	90 days
Sowing method	Start under cover, transplant out
Frost hardy	Yes
Sun	full-sun
Watering	moderate
Plant family	Brassicaceae

When should I sow Kale 'Cavolo Nero' in the UK?

In the UK, sow Kale 'Cavolo Nero' from April to July. It is normally started under cover and transplanted. Wait until the soil has reached 5°C at seed depth rather than going by the calendar - kale will sit and rot in cold ground.

What soil temperature does Kale 'Cavolo Nero' need to germinate?

Kale 'Cavolo Nero' needs a minimum soil temperature of 5°C at seed depth to germinate reliably. Below that, germination is slow and patchy, and seed is more likely to rot than sprout. Measure at around 5cm down, in the morning, rather than trusting air temperature.

How deep and how far apart should I sow Kale 'Cavolo Nero'?

For Kale 'Cavolo Nero', space plants 60cm apart.

How long does Kale 'Cavolo Nero' take to grow?

Kale 'Cavolo Nero' takes roughly 90 days from sowing to harvest. Seed usually germinates in about 10 days.

Is Kale 'Cavolo Nero' frost hardy?

Yes. Kale 'Cavolo Nero' is frost hardy and will stand through UK frosts, so it can be left out over winter in most of the country.

Sowing data cross-checked against RHS growing guides and UK seed-merchant catalogues. Soil temperatures are the minimum for reliable germination, measured at seed depth.