When to Harvest Kale

Kale can be harvested once leaves reach a usable size. Because kale continues producing new leaves, regular harvesting can provide crops over a long period.

In the UK, kale is often harvested from late spring through winter, depending on planting time.

Picking outer leaves first helps the plant keep growing.

Harvesting kale leaves

Kale is usually harvested by picking or cutting the outer leaves.

Leave the centre of the plant to continue growing.

Regular harvesting encourages new leaves to develop.

Harvesting young leaves

You can harvest smaller leaves for salads.

Frequent picking helps plants remain productive.

Harvesting container kale

Kale growing in containers can be harvested in the same way as garden-grown plants.

For container advice, see growing kale in containers.

Kale harvest season in the UK

Kale planted in spring can produce leaves for many months.

Later plantings often continue growing into colder weather.

For planting advice, see when to plant kale in the UK.

For growing advice, see how to grow kale in the UK.