Growing Kale in Zone 9A

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

Zone 9A 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 9A

USDA Hardiness Zone 9A has an average last spring frost around Feb 28 and first fall frost around Nov 28. 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.