When to plant Kale in Kendall County, IL
Kendall County gardeners should plant Kale between April 6 and April 27 in spring. With Kendall County's Zone 5b climate (last frost April 20), Kale needs 50–70 days to mature — plant by August 8 for a full harvest. A second sowing from August 8 to August 22 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Kale in Kendall County, IL
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.
Kendall County, Illinois is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 20 and the first fall frost is October 17, giving you a growing season of approximately 180 days.
At an elevation of 708 feet, Kendall County receives approximately 38.2 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 85°F, providing good warmth for Kale during the growing season.
Kendall County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.1-6.8
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 | — | 1.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 1.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 3" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 4.3" | 3.9" | 0.4" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 4.6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jun | 4.3" | 5.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 4.1" | 0.2" | 💧 Light watering |
| Aug | 4.3" | 3.4" | 0.9" | 💧 Light watering |
| Sep | 4.3" | 3" | 1.3" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 2.9" | 1.4" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | — | 2.9" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 1.8" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Apr–Oct in Kendall County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Kale Planting Timeline — Kendall County, IL
Kale Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 16 | Mar 16 – Mar 30 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 20 | Apr 20 – May 4 |
| Direct Sow | April 6 | Apr 6 – Apr 27 |
| Harvest | June 15 | Jun 15 – Aug 10 |
| Fall Sowing | August 8 | Aug 8 – Aug 22 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Fall Sowing Harvest |
| September | — |
| 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 5b
📆 Growing Season
180 days in Kendall County
Growing Tips for Kendall 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 Kendall County, IL?
Kendall County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of April 20. Plan your Kale planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Kendall County, IL?
Kendall County, Illinois is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 20 and first fall frost is October 17.
When should I plant Kale in Kendall County, IL?
In Kendall County, IL, plant Kale after the last frost (around April 20) and before the first frost (around October 17). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Kendall County, IL for Kale?
Kendall County sits in USDA Zone 5b. Kale grows reliably in zones 2a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Kale grow in Kendall County's climate?
Yes — Kale grows well in Kendall County's temperate climate. Kendall County averages a 180-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 20 and first frost around October 17.
Your Kendall County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Kendall County (Zone 5b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.