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Can You Grow Kale in Ohio?

US · USDA Zone 5b · zones 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

Ohio last frost

early April

Ohio first frost

late October

Days to harvest

55–75 days

When to plant Kales in Ohio

Start indoors

Mar 10

Transplant

Apr 7

Harvest

Jun 1 – Jun 21

Dates are approximate, based on Ohio'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 Ohio

Ohio has a humid continental climate. Northern Ohio near Lake Erie is Zone 6a; inland areas are Zone 5b. Four seasons with a productive 6-month growing window.

See what grows well in Ohio →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Kale in Ohio?

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

What zone is Ohio?

Ohio spans USDA Zone 5b (5a, 5b, 6a).

When do you plant Kales in Ohio?

Plant Kales around early April (start indoors Mar 10), harvest Jun 1 – Jun 21.