Scarlet

Kale

Zone 3a Save Garden

🌱 55d to harvest Rosette

Velvety leaves unfurl in a dramatic scarlet-to-deep-green palette, with a crisp, tender bite that stays pleasantly sweet even as …

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Apr 10th
Last Frost	May 15th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	May 15th
Harvest Begins	Jul 9th
Harvest Ends	Sep 1st

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	55
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Rosette
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	45
Min Soil Temp (°F)	40
Min Night Temp (°F)	30
Harden Off (days)	6

Recommended Companions

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease is most likely on Brassica oleracea (scarlet), and how can I manage it?

Watch for cabbage worms (imported cabbageworm/loopers) and aphids, which chew leaves and leave sticky residue. Inspect undersides weekly and hand-pick large larvae early; then spray Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) for worms and use insecticidal soap for aphids, repeating according to the label. If you see blackened leaf spots or a fuzzy gray growth, remove affected leaves immediately and improve airflow because Brassica oleracea is prone to fungal leaf disease in damp, crowded plants.

How often should I water Brassica oleracea during the main growing phase?

During active leaf growth, keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged—aim for about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of water per week total, adjusted for heat and rainfall. Water at the base in the morning and let the top 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) of soil dry slightly between waterings to prevent rot and leaf disease. Mulch helps stabilize moisture so the plant doesn’t swing between drought and wet, which can lead to poor leaf quality.

How do I know when my Brassica oleracea (scarlet) is ready to harvest?

Harvest at about 55 days or when the plants reach a usable, firm size with fully developed leaves. For best flavor, pick leaves in the morning and harvest the outer leaves first while the center continues growing; stop when leaves become tough or overly bitter. If plants begin to flower, leaf quality drops—harvest immediately and use promptly.

Velvety leaves unfurl in a dramatic scarlet-to-deep-green palette, with a crisp, tender bite that stays pleasantly sweet even as the weather cools. “Scarlet” kale forms an upright, richly textured rosette—boldly frilled edges and a lively sheen that makes every harvest feel like a garden triumph. Ideal for fresh salads and vibrant sautéed greens, it also shines in hearty braises and robust purées, where its color deepens beautifully.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 40°F and nights stay above 30°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 6 days first.

Expert Note

For the sweetest flavor and best color, grow Scarlet kale in cool weather and keep evenly moist—hard frosts are usually an advantage rather than a problem.