Growing Collards, also Collard greens, Borekale

Brassica sp. : Brassicaceae / the mustard or cabbage family

Jan F M A M J J A S O N Dec
    S                  
      T                
      P P              

(Best months for growing Collards in USA - Zone 5a regions)

  • S = Plant undercover in seed trays
  • T = Plant out (transplant) seedlings
  • P = Sow seed
  • Easy to grow. Grow in seed trays, and plant out in 4-6 weeks. Sow seed at a depth approximately three times the diameter of the seed. Best planted at soil temperatures between 8°C and 30°C. (Show °F/in)
  • Space plants: 40 - 50 cm apart
  • Harvest in 8-11 weeks.
  • Compatible with (can grow beside): Dwarf (bush) beans, beets, celery, cucumber, onions, marigold, nasturtium, rhubarb, aromatic herbs (sage, dill, chamomile)
  • Avoid growing close to: Climbing (pole) beans, tomato, peppers (chili, capsicum), eggplant (aubergine), strawberry, mustard
  • Collard leaves

Leafy, green vegetable - heat tolerant so a good substitute for kale and cabbage in tropical areas. Also recommended for health reasons.

For best flavor and texture, leaves should be picked before they reach their maximum size.

Culinary hints - cooking and eating Collards

Slice and steam or use in stir-fry.
One of the most common vegetables in East Africa.
In the United States, collard greens symbolize Southern culture and African-American culture and identity.

Your comments and tips

16 Aug 24, Gayle in Southern MS (USA - Zone 8b climate)
Which collard green type is more tender and is there one that's easiest to grow in Southern Mississippi?
13 May 24, John (USA - Zone 9a climate)
Can I plant collard greens all year long
28 May 24, (USA - Zone 9a climate)
Check the planting guide. That is what it is there for.
24 Apr 24, Bukkoe (USA - Zone 7a climate)
Can i start my seedlings now
24 Apr 24, (USA - Zone 7a climate)
Probably best to wait until August
23 Sep 23, MIKE (New Zealand - sub-tropical climate)
If you grow broccoli you can eat the leaves. Choose middle to small leaves after the head has been harvested. This will encourage tasty little heads at each lateral.
18 Aug 23, Stephen Carter (USA - Zone 8b climate)
What is the best fertilizer for collard greens and how to apply it for best results.
02 Jun 23, Jackie (Australia - temperate climate)
I’m in south coast area of NSW, can I plant collard seeds now 2nd June or should I wait till spring?
03 Jun 23, (Australia - temperate climate)
It says to plant Spring. Reason - soil temperature.
27 Nov 22, Mary Ann Wright (Australia - temperate climate)
Where can I purchase Collard Green seeds in Australia . Thank- you
Showing 1 - 10 of 106 comments

My collards are starting to grow what looks like seed pods at the top of the plant. How do I harvest the seeds?

- Debra

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This planting guide is a general reference intended for home gardeners. We recommend that you take into account your local conditions in making planting decisions. Gardenate is not a farming or commercial advisory service. For specific advice, please contact your local plant suppliers, gardening groups, or agricultural department. The information on this site is presented in good faith, but we take no responsibility as to the accuracy of the information provided.
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