Collards Growing Guide

Brassica oleracea var. viridis

Crop Rotation Group

Brassicas (Cabbage family) ●

Soil

Fertile, well-drained soil with plenty of well rotted compost dug in.

Position

Full sun.

Frost tolerant

Yes.

Feeding

Not usually required, but may be needed if plants grow slowly.

Spacing

Single Plants: 30cm (11") each way (minimum)
Rows: 30cm (11") with 40cm (1' 3") row gap (minimum)

Sow and Plant

Sow indoors in late winter to early spring and set out when plants have 5 leaves. They handle the summer heat quite well. They are slightly sweeter than kale and can be grown as a 'cut and come again crop', providing cabbage flavour without having to grow and harvest an entire head. (Also a good option for smaller gardens.) Start another planting in seed trays or a seed bed in mid to late summer, and set out in early autumn for a winter crop. They are sweeter in colder weather.
Our Garden Planner can produce a personalised calendar of when to sow, plant and harvest for your area.

Notes

The flavor of collards is improved by cool temperatures, so winter is the preferred time to grow this crop.

Harvesting

Harvest leaves individually, when they are about the size of your hand.

Planting and Harvesting Calendar

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Pests which Affect Collards

Aphids (General)

Slug

Snail