When to Plant Kale in Tulare County, CA
Kale is an exceptionally hardy, nutrient-dense green available in curly, lacinato, and Russian varieties. It tolerates heavy frost and often tastes sweeter after cold exposure.
Tulare County, California is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is February 17 and the first fall frost is December 3, giving you a growing season of approximately 289 days.
At an elevation of 5,836 feet, Tulare County receives approximately 18.4 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 95°F, so Kale may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. With low rainfall, drip irrigation is essential for growing Kale successfully. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.
Tulare County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
5.9-7.2
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Plant Water Budget
Water stress score is 8/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Kale Planting Timeline — Tulare County, CA
Kale Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | January 20 | Jan 20 – Feb 3 |
| Transplant Outdoors | February 17 | Feb 17 – Mar 3 |
| Direct Sow | January 27 | Jan 27 – Feb 17 |
| Fall Sowing | October 8 | Oct 8 – Oct 22 |
| Harvest | April 14 | Apr 14 – Jun 9 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| February | Start Indoors Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| March | Transplant Outdoors |
| April | Harvest |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | Fall Sowing |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
50–70 days
Soil pH
6 – 7.5
USDA Zone
Zone 9a
Growing Season
289 days
Growing Tips for Tulare County
Direct sow or transplant in early spring or late summer. Harvest outer leaves first to keep plants productive. Kale overwinters in many climates and can provide greens all year.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Isolate 1/2 mile from other brassicas (broccoli, cabbage, etc.) — they all cross.
Kale in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Kale in Tulare County, CA?
Tulare County is in Zone 9a with an average last frost of February 17. Plan your Kale planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Tulare County, CA?
Tulare County, California is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is February 17 and first fall frost is December 3.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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