When to plant Kale in Fayette County, AL
Fayette County sits in USDA Zone 8a. Plant Kale between March 12 (after last frost on March 26) and April 2. A second sowing from August 27 to September 10 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Kale in Fayette County, AL
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.
Fayette County, Alabama is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 26 and the first fall frost is November 5, giving you a growing season of approximately 224 days.
At an elevation of 336 feet, Fayette County receives approximately 55.7 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 90°F, providing good warmth for Kale during the growing season. Clay soil retains moisture well for Kale, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Kale root diseases.
Fayette County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.2-6.3
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Kale
Kale needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Kale Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 4.1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 3.9" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | 4.3" | 5.7" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Apr | 4.3" | 3.6" | 0.7" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jun | 4.3" | 5.5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 5.5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 5.4" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 4.5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Oct | 4.3" | 3.1" | 1.2" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | 4.3" | 4.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Dec | — | 5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Mar–Nov in Fayette County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Kale Planting Timeline — Fayette County, AL
Kale Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 19 | Feb 19 – Mar 5 |
| Transplant Outdoors | March 26 | Mar 26 – Apr 9 |
| Direct Sow | March 12 | Mar 12 – Apr 2 |
| Harvest | May 21 | May 21 – Jul 16 |
| Fall Sowing | August 27 | Aug 27 – Sep 10 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Start Indoors |
| March | Start Indoors Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Fall Sowing |
| September | Fall Sowing |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
50–70 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 8a
📆 Growing Season
224 days in Fayette County
Growing Tips for Fayette 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
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
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 Fayette County, AL?
Fayette County is in Zone 8a with an average last frost of March 26. Plan your Kale planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Fayette County, AL?
Fayette County, Alabama is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 26 and first fall frost is November 5.
When should I plant Kale in Fayette County, AL?
In Fayette County, AL, plant Kale after the last frost (around March 26) and before the first frost (around November 5). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Fayette County, AL for Kale?
Fayette County sits in USDA Zone 8a. Kale grows reliably in zones 2a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Kale grow in Fayette County's climate?
Yes — Kale grows well in Fayette County's temperate climate. Fayette County averages a 224-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 26 and first frost around November 5.
Your Fayette County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Fayette County (Zone 8a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.