Growing Collard Greens from Seed

Collards are a southern favorite and absolutely delicious. Bonus, they are pretty easy to grow and can produce massive yields.

What are Collard Greens?

Collard is a group of certain loose-leafed cultivars of Brassica oleracea. Collards produce dark green leaves and tough stems that can be (often times are) removed before eating. The flavor of collard greens is a cross between cabbage and hearty kale, similar to Swiss chard. Collard greens are a southern staple. 

 

When to Plant Collard Seeds

Plant collard seeds from early spring to approximately 3 months before expected fall frost. If you live in a very mid climate, you might be able to grow them year round. Although they are a cool weather crop, they can tolerate heat.

Collards thrive in temperatures between 65°F and 75°F (18-24°C) and can withstand frost down to 25°F

 

Planting Collard Seeds

Sow seed ¼ to ½  inch deep in fertile, well drained soil. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

Collard seed should germinate in 5 to 10 days at an optimal temperature of approx 75°F.

 

Collards can be grown in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.

For indoor planting: Start seeds indoors 6 to 4 weeks before the last frost in spring or 6 to 8 weeks before the first frost in fall.

It is a good practice to rotate crops every year or seasons. Avoid planting where cabbage family crops have grown recently.

Space plants 18 to 20 inches apart.

Harvesting Collard Greens

About 2 months after planting, you can start to harvest by clipping individual leaves. Collards are very hardy, and they flavor can improve into the late fall with light frost.