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Can You Grow Kale in South Dakota?

US · USDA Zone 4b · zones 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

2a–9b

South Dakota last frost

mid-April

South Dakota first frost

mid-October

Days to harvest

55–75 days

When to plant Kales in South Dakota

Start indoors

Mar 18

Transplant

Apr 15

Harvest

Jun 9 – Jun 29

Dates are approximate, based on South Dakota'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 South Dakota

South Dakota has a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. Eastern South Dakota is Zone 4b-5a; western South Dakota is colder. Short growing seasons.

See what grows well in South Dakota →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Kale in South Dakota?

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

What zone is South Dakota?

South Dakota spans USDA Zone 4b (3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b).

When do you plant Kales in South Dakota?

Plant Kales around mid-April (start indoors Mar 18), harvest Jun 9 – Jun 29.