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Can You Grow Kale in North Carolina?

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

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

2a–9b

North Carolina last frost

late February

North Carolina first frost

early December

Days to harvest

55–75 days

When to plant Kales in North Carolina

Start indoors

Jan 31

Transplant

Feb 28

Harvest

Apr 24 – May 14

Dates are approximate, based on North Carolina'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 North Carolina

North Carolina spans the mountains (Zone 5b-6a), Piedmont (Zone 7a-7b), and coastal plain (Zone 8a). Long warm seasons support tobacco, sweet potatoes, and a wide range of vegetables.

See what grows well in North Carolina →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Kale in North Carolina?

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

What zone is North Carolina?

North Carolina spans USDA Zone 7b (5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a).

When do you plant Kales in North Carolina?

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