Collards tolerate frost well, so planting them four to six weeks before the last expected freeze gives them a strong start. Knowing when to plant collards is the key to a long harvest season. These leafy greens thrive in cool weather and actually taste sweeter after a light frost. If you time it right, you can enjoy fresh collards from fall through early spring in many regions.
This guide covers everything you need to know about planting collards. You will learn the best dates for spring and fall crops, how soil temperature affects germination, and tips for extending your harvest. Let’s get started.
Why Timing Matters For Collards
Collards are a cool-season crop. They grow best when temperatures are between 60°F and 75°F. Heat causes them to bolt, meaning they flower and turn bitter. Cold weather, on the other hand, makes the leaves sweeter and more tender.
Planting at the right time ensures your collards mature during ideal conditions. If you plant too early in spring, cold soil can slow germination. Plant too late in fall, and they won’t have enough time to develop before hard freezes.
Understanding your local frost dates is the first step. The last spring frost date and first fall frost date are your guideposts. Collards can survive temperatures down to about 20°F, but they grow best above 40°F.
When To Plant Collards For Spring Harvest
For a spring crop, you want to plant collards early enough that they mature before summer heat arrives. The exact timing depends on your climate zone.
General Spring Planting Window
Plant collard seeds directly in the garden 4 to 6 weeks before your last expected spring frost. This is usually in late winter or early spring, depending on where you live.
- In warm climates (zones 8-10): Plant in February or March
- In moderate climates (zones 6-7): Plant in March or early April
- In cool climates (zones 3-5): Plant in April or May
You can also start seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost. Transplant seedlings outdoors when they are 4 to 6 inches tall and the soil is workable.
Soil Temperature For Spring Planting
Collard seeds germinate best when soil temperature is between 45°F and 85°F. The ideal range is 70°F to 80°F. If the soil is too cold, seeds may rot or germinate slowly.
Use a soil thermometer to check. If the soil is below 40°F, wait a week or two. You can warm the soil by covering it with black plastic for a few days before planting.
Succession Planting For Continuous Harvest
To have a steady supply of collards, plant a new batch every 2 to 3 weeks until about 6 weeks before summer heat sets in. This gives you fresh leaves throughout spring.
- Plant first batch 4-6 weeks before last frost
- Plant second batch 2 weeks later
- Plant third batch 2 weeks after that
- Stop planting when daytime temps regularly exceed 80°F
When To Plant Collards For Fall And Winter Harvest
Fall-planted collards are often the best. The cool weather brings out their sweetness, and they can be harvested well into winter in many areas.
General Fall Planting Window
Plant collards 6 to 8 weeks before your first expected fall frost. This allows them to mature before hard freezes arrive. In most regions, this means planting in late summer or early fall.
- In warm climates (zones 8-10): Plant in September or October
- In moderate climates (zones 6-7): Plant in August or September
- In cool climates (zones 3-5): Plant in July or August
For winter harvest in mild areas, plant in early fall. Collards can survive under row covers or cold frames even when temperatures drop to 20°F.
Benefits Of Fall Planting
Fall collards have several advantages over spring crops. They face fewer pest problems, grow more slowly, and develop richer flavor. The leaves are often thicker and more tender.
Additionally, fall-planted collards can be harvested over many months. You can pick outer leaves as needed, and the plant keeps producing from the center. This extends your harvest into winter.
Using Season Extenders
To push your harvest even later, use row covers, cold frames, or low tunnels. These protect plants from heavy frost and wind. With protection, collards can survive temperatures as low as 10°F.
In zones 7-10, you can often harvest collards all winter without extra protection. In colder zones, a simple cover can add 4 to 6 weeks to your season.
Regional Planting Guides
Your local climate greatly affects when to plant collards. Here are specific guidelines for different regions of the United States.
Southern States (Zones 7-10)
In the South, collards are a staple. You can plant them for both spring and fall harvests. The mild winters allow for nearly year-round production.
- Spring planting: February to March
- Fall planting: September to October
- Winter harvest: With protection, harvest through December or January
In deep South zones 9-10, you can plant collards in October for winter harvest. They may even survive without protection in mild winters.
Northern States (Zones 3-5)
Northern gardeners have a shorter growing season. Focus on spring and early fall plantings. Use season extenders to get the most from your crop.
- Spring planting: April to May
- Fall planting: July to August
- Winter harvest: Not possible without heated greenhouse
Start seeds indoors for spring to get a head start. For fall, direct sow in midsummer so plants mature before hard frosts.
Coastal And Mountain Regions
Coastal areas have moderate temperatures, so you can plant collards over a longer period. Mountain regions have shorter summers and earlier frosts.
- Coastal: Spring planting March-April, fall planting August-September
- Mountain: Spring planting May-June, fall planting July-August
Always check your local frost dates. They vary even within the same state due to elevation and proximity to water.
How To Plant Collards Step By Step
Once you know when to plant collards, follow these steps for success. Proper planting ensures strong growth and high yields.
Preparing The Soil
Collards grow best in rich, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. They need plenty of nitrogen for leafy growth.
- Test your soil pH and amend if needed
- Add 2-3 inches of compost or well-rotted manure
- Work in a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) at planting time
- Rake the soil smooth and remove rocks or debris
If you have heavy clay soil, consider raised beds. Collards do not like waterlogged roots.
Sowing Seeds Directly
Direct sowing is the most common method. It works well for both spring and fall plantings.
- Sow seeds 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep
- Space seeds 2 inches apart in rows 18-24 inches apart
- Water gently after planting
- Thin seedlings to 12-18 inches apart when they have 4 leaves
Thinning is important. Crowded plants produce smaller leaves and are more prone to disease.
Transplanting Seedlings
If you start seeds indoors, transplant them carefully to avoid shock.
- Harden off seedlings over 5-7 days
- Dig holes 12-18 inches apart
- Place seedlings at the same depth they were in pots
- Water thoroughly after transplanting
- Add a layer of mulch to retain moisture
Transplant on a cloudy day or in late afternoon to reduce stress. Water regularly for the first week.
Caring For Collards After Planting
Good care after planting ensures a bountiful harvest. Collards are relatively low-maintenance but have specific needs.
Watering
Collards need consistent moisture, especially during dry spells. Water deeply once or twice a week, providing about 1 inch of water per week.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and keep soil cool. This is especially important for spring crops as temperatures rise.
Fertilizing
Collards are heavy feeders. Apply a nitrogen-rich fertilizer every 3-4 weeks during the growing season.
- Use fish emulsion, blood meal, or a balanced organic fertilizer
- Side-dress with compost halfway through the season
- Avoid over-fertilizing, which can cause bitter leaves
Pest And Disease Management
Common pests include aphids, cabbage worms, and flea beetles. Use row covers to protect young plants. Handpick caterpillars or use insecticidal soap if needed.
Rotate crops yearly to prevent soil-borne diseases. Avoid planting collards where other brassicas (cabbage, kale, broccoli) grew the previous year.
Harvesting Collards At The Right Time
You can start harvesting collards when the leaves are about 10-12 inches long. Pick outer leaves first, leaving the center to continue growing.
For the best flavor, harvest after a light frost. The cold converts starches to sugars, making leaves sweeter. Avoid harvesting during very hot weather, as leaves may be tough.
You can harvest individual leaves for weeks or months. If you want a full harvest, cut the entire plant at the base when it reaches full size.
Common Mistakes When Planting Collards
Even experienced gardeners make mistakes. Here are the most common ones and how to avoid them.
- Planting too late in spring: Leads to bolting in summer heat
- Planting too early in fall: Young plants may struggle in hot soil
- Not thinning seedlings: Results in crowded, small plants
- Ignoring soil pH: Collards need neutral to slightly alkaline soil
- Overwatering: Can cause root rot, especially in clay soil
Avoid these pitfalls, and your collards will thrive. Pay attention to your specific climate and adjust planting dates accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Plant Collards In Summer?
Summer planting is not recommended in most areas. Heat causes collards to bolt and become bitter. If you must plant in summer, choose a heat-tolerant variety and provide shade.
How Late Can I Plant Collards In Fall?
Plant collards at least 6-8 weeks before your first hard freeze. In mild climates, you can plant as late as October or November. Use row covers for extra protection.
Do Collards Need Full Sun?
Collards grow best in full sun, meaning at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. They can tolerate partial shade, but growth will be slower and leaves smaller.
Can I Grow Collards In Containers?
Yes, collards grow well in containers. Use a pot at least 12 inches deep and wide. Choose a compact variety for best results. Ensure good drainage and water regularly.
How Do I Know When Collards Are Ready To Harvest?
Harvest outer leaves when they are 10-12 inches long and dark green. The plant should have at least 10-12 leaves before you start picking. Leaves should feel firm and crisp.
Final Tips For Success
Knowing when to plant collards is just the start. Here are a few final tips to maximize your harvest.
Keep a garden journal. Note your planting dates, frost dates, and harvest times. This helps you refine your schedule each year.
Try different varieties. ‘Georgia Southern’ is a classic, but ‘Champion’ and ‘Flash’ are also excellent. Some varieties are more cold-tolerant or bolt-resistant.
Don’t forget to share your harvest. Collards freeze well, so you can blanch and freeze extra leaves for winter use. They also make great gifts for neighbors and friends.
With the right timing and care, you can enjoy fresh collards for months. Start planning your planting dates today, and you will be rewarded with a bountiful, tasty crop.