When to plant Kale in Marion County, AL
Spring Kale in Marion County goes in March 12–April 2, once nighttime temps stop dipping near freezing. A second sowing from August 27 to September 10 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Kale in Marion 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.
Marion County, Alabama is in USDA Zone 7b. 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 387 feet, Marion County receives approximately 56.4 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 93°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.
Marion County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.5-6.8
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 | — | 4.9" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 4.5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | 4.3" | 4.8" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Apr | 4.3" | 4.9" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| May | 4.3" | 4.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jun | 4.3" | 4.5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 5.9" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 6.1" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 4.6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Oct | 4.3" | 3.1" | 1.2" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | 4.3" | 4.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Dec | — | 4.4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Mar–Nov in Marion County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Kale Planting Timeline — Marion 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 7b
📆 Growing Season
224 days in Marion County
Growing Tips for Marion 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 Marion County, AL?
Marion County is in Zone 7b 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 Marion County, AL?
Marion County, Alabama is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7b. The average last spring frost is March 26 and first fall frost is November 5.
When should I plant Kale in Marion County, AL?
In Marion 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 Marion County, AL for Kale?
Marion County sits in USDA Zone 7b. Kale grows reliably in zones 2a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Kale grow in Marion County's climate?
Yes — Kale grows well in Marion County's temperate climate. Marion County averages a 224-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 26 and first frost around November 5.
Your Marion County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Marion County (Zone 7b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.