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Can You Grow Kale in New Mexico?

US · USDA Zone 7b · zones 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 8a

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

2a–9b

New Mexico last frost

late February

New Mexico first frost

early December

Days to harvest

55–75 days

When to plant Kales in New Mexico

Start indoors

Jan 31

Transplant

Feb 28

Harvest

Apr 24 – May 14

Dates are approximate, based on New Mexico'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 New Mexico

New Mexico has an arid continental climate. Albuquerque is Zone 7a; Santa Fe is Zone 6b; southern desert areas are Zone 8a-9a. Low humidity means dramatic temperature swings.

See what grows well in New Mexico →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Kale in New Mexico?

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

What zone is New Mexico?

New Mexico spans USDA Zone 7b (4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 8a).

When do you plant Kales in New Mexico?

Plant Kales around late February (start indoors Jan 31), harvest Apr 24 – May 14.