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Can You Grow Kale in Michigan?

US · USDA Zone 5b · zones 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a

Grows well here

Kale grows exceptionally well here — it is one of the most cold-tolerant vegetables available.

Plant zones

2a–9b

Michigan last frost

early April

Michigan first frost

late October

Days to harvest

55–75 days

When to plant Kales in Michigan

Start indoors

Mar 10

Transplant

Apr 7

Harvest

Jun 1 – Jun 21

Dates are approximate, based on Michigan's average frost dates. Your exact yard may vary by microclimate.

About Kale

Kale is one of the hardiest vegetables available — it survives hard frosts and tastes sweeter after a freeze.

Sow indoors 4-6 weeks before last frost or direct sow in late summer for fall harvest. Harvest outer leaves to keep the plant producing. Cold-hardy varieties survive winter in Zone 7+.

Full kale growing guide →

Gardening in Michigan

Michigan has a humid continental climate moderated by the Great Lakes. Southern Michigan is Zone 5b-6a; the Upper Peninsula is Zone 4a-5a. Known for fruit crops along Lake Michigan.