Kale Seeds,
Sahara

Plant in early spring, 2–4 weeks before your region’s last frost date, or in mid-to-late summer for a fall crop. In warmer zones, winter harvests are possible with minimal protection. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

Sow seeds directly into garden beds or start indoors. Plant 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep. Once seedlings emerge and have a set of true leaves, thin to 12–18 inches apart to allow airflow and full leaf development.

Keep soil evenly moist and apply a nitrogen-rich fertilizer every 3–4 weeks. Sahara kale is more heat-tolerant than other kales but still appreciates mulch to regulate temperature and moisture. Watch for common brassica pests and use floating row covers as needed.

• Like all cabbage family members, kale is biennial.
• Kale is insect pollinated and will cross with some closely related cabbage family members, so it is wise to isolate varieties at least a mile apart to ensure pure seed. Other techniques such as alternate day caging can be used if isolation is not possible.
• You will need to overwinter plants to harvest seeds. Mulch plants heavily with straw or cover with row cover and greenhouse plastic in an attempt to nurse plants through the winter. You can also dig up plants and store them inside to replant in spring.
• When the flower spikes emerge in the second year, let the seed pods dry to brown and cut off the entire flower spike.
• Hang flower stalks upside down indoors over a tarp, allowing the seeds to drop onto the tarp.
• Seeds will remain viable for up to 4 years.