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Can You Grow Kale in Washington?

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

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

2a–9b

Washington last frost

late January

Washington first frost

mid-December

Days to harvest

55–75 days

When to plant Kales in Washington

Start indoors

Jan 2

Transplant

Jan 30

Harvest

Mar 26 – Apr 15

Dates are approximate, based on Washington'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 Washington

Washington has dramatically different climates. The wet maritime west (Zone 8a-8b) is mild and productive year-round. Eastern Washington is semi-arid and colder (Zone 5-6) with hot dry summers.

See what grows well in Washington →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Kale in Washington?

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

What zone is Washington?

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

When do you plant Kales in Washington?

Plant Kales around late January (start indoors Jan 2), harvest Mar 26 – Apr 15.