A hardy green for cool-weather gardens
Kale is one of the most dependable vegetables in a North Texas winter garden. Its leaves grow in shades of green and purple, with textures ranging from smooth to deeply curled. Unlike vegetables harvested all at once, kale often provides fresh leaves for weeks or months.
Growing Kale in North Texas
Kale grows best in full sun during cool weather, although some afternoon shade helps during warmer periods.
Planting: Start seeds in late summer for fall harvests or in winter for early spring planting.
Spacing: Allow approximately 12–18 inches between plants.
Soil: Well-drained soil enriched with compost.
Water: Keep the soil evenly moist, especially while plants are establishing.
Growing season: Fall through spring, with some protection during severe freezes.
Kale tolerates light freezes, and cool weather often improves its flavor.
What to Look for in the Garden
Notice how new leaves emerge from the center of the plant while older leaves spread outward. Different varieties have distinctive leaf shapes and textures.
Watch for small holes in the leaves. Caterpillars and other insects enjoy kale as much as people do!
Harvesting Kale
Begin harvesting when leaves reach a useful size, often 6–8 inches long.
Pick the larger outer leaves first, leaving the central growing point intact. The plant will continue producing new leaves.
Avoid stripping the entire plant unless you're harvesting the whole crop.
From Garden to Kitchen
Refrigerate unwashed kale in a loose produce bag. For best quality, use within about five days.
Remove thick stems from mature leaves before cooking. Young leaves are tender enough for salads, while larger leaves work well in soups, sautés, and roasted dishes.
Easy Garlic Kale
Ingredients
1 bunch fresh kale
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper
A squeeze of lemon juice
Instructions
Wash kale, remove tough stems, and chop the leaves.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet.
Add garlic and cook briefly, without browning.
Add kale and a splash of water.
Cook for 4–6 minutes, stirring until tender.
Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
Try This at Home
Harvest a few outer leaves from each plant rather than removing the entire plant. With good care, a small planting of kale will provide repeated harvests throughout the cool season.
The Giving Garden at Jacob's Reward Farm
Battling Hunger. Caring for Creation.
