When to plant Kale in Scott County, MO
Scott County gardeners should plant Kale between March 26 and April 16 in spring. With Scott County's Zone 7a climate (last frost April 9), Kale needs 50–70 days to mature — plant by August 15 for a full harvest. A second sowing from August 15 to August 29 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Kale in Scott County, MO
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.
Scott County, Missouri is in USDA Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 9 and the first fall frost is October 24, giving you a growing season of approximately 198 days.
At an elevation of 880 feet, Scott County receives approximately 34.9 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 85°F, providing good warmth for Kale during the growing season.
Scott County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.5-6.7
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 | — | 1.4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 1.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 2.2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 4.3" | 3.7" | 0.6" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 3.6" | 0.7" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 4.7" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 4.1" | 0.2" | 💧 Light watering |
| Aug | 4.3" | 3.4" | 0.9" | 💧 Light watering |
| Sep | 4.3" | 3.2" | 1.1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 2.7" | 1.6" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | — | 2.4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 1.8" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Apr–Oct in Scott County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Kale Planting Timeline — Scott County, MO
Kale Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 5 | Mar 5 – Mar 19 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 9 | Apr 9 – Apr 23 |
| Direct Sow | March 26 | Mar 26 – Apr 16 |
| Harvest | June 4 | Jun 4 – Jul 30 |
| Fall Sowing | August 15 | Aug 15 – Aug 29 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | — |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Fall Sowing |
| 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 7a
📆 Growing Season
198 days in Scott County
Growing Tips for Scott 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 Scott County, MO?
Scott County is in Zone 7a with an average last frost of April 9. Plan your Kale planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Scott County, MO?
Scott County, Missouri is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 9 and first fall frost is October 24.
When should I plant Kale in Scott County, MO?
In Scott County, MO, plant Kale after the last frost (around April 9) and before the first frost (around October 24). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Scott County, MO for Kale?
Scott County sits in USDA Zone 7a. Kale grows reliably in zones 2a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Kale grow in Scott County's climate?
Yes — Kale grows well in Scott County's temperate climate. Scott County averages a 198-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 9 and first frost around October 24.
Your Scott County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Scott County (Zone 7a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.