Growing Kale in Zone 11A

Kale is an extremely cold-hardy green that actually tastes better after frost.

Zone 11A has a very long growing season with mild winters. Many crops can be grown nearly year-round with successive plantings.

Top Growing Tips

• One of the hardiest vegetables — survives into the 20s°F
• Flavor sweetens after frost exposure
• Harvest outer leaves first, leaving the center to keep growing
• Can overwinter in zones 7+ with mulch protection
• Lacinato (dinosaur) kale is the most cold-tolerant variety

Companion Planting

Good companions: beets, celery, herbs, onions, potatoes

Avoid planting near: strawberries, tomatoes

Harvest Timeline

50-65 days from seed (baby leaves at 25 days)

About Zone 11A

USDA Hardiness Zone 11A has an average last spring frost around Jan 1 and first fall frost around Dec 31. All planting dates above are calculated from these frost dates. Your specific location may vary — check with your local extension office for the most accurate dates.