Cool-Season Vegetable

When to Plant Collard Greens

Heat-tolerant Southern green that produces from spring through winter. More durable than kale in hot conditions.

Sun

Full sun to partial shade

Water

1-1.5 inches per week

Days to Harvest

55-75

Difficulty

beginner

Spacing

18"

Frost Tolerance

high

The Short Answer

Collard Greens are cold-tolerant and actually prefer cooler growing conditions. You can direct sow seeds 2 weeks before your last frost date — one of the earliest crops you can plant. Or start seeds indoors 4 weeks before your last frost for an even earlier harvest. Enter your zip code on our homepage tool for exact dates.

How to Grow Collard Greens

Collards are the most heat-tolerant brassica green — while kale, broccoli, and cabbage wilt in summer heat, collards keep producing in conditions that would kill their cousins. The flavor is mildest after frost, but collards are serviceable (if slightly tougher) all summer. In the Deep South, collards are a year-round crop. Harvest outer leaves and let the center continue growing; a single plant produces for months. The traditional slow-cooking method transforms tough leaves into silky, rich greens, but young leaves can be used raw in salads or quick-sautéed.

Starting Seeds Indoors

Begin collard greens seeds indoors 4 weeks before your average last frost date. Seeds need soil temperatures of at least 45°F to germinate, which typically takes 5-10 days. Provide 12 hours of light per day using a south-facing window or grow lights.

Transplanting

Move seedlings outside 2 weeks before your last frost date, once soil temperatures reach 45°F. Harden off seedlings for 7 days before transplanting by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions.

Direct Sowing

Collard Greens can be direct sown 2 weeks before your last frost date. Plant seeds 0.5" deep, spaced 18" apart.

Fall Planting

Collard Greens are planted in fall, 8 weeks before your average first frost date. Plant 0.5" deep, 18" apart.

Growing Tips

Harvest outer leaves and let center keep producing. Collards handle heat better than any other brassica green. Frost dramatically improves flavor — some growers won't pick before the first freeze.

Companion Planting

Good companions:

Beets Onions Potatoes

Keep away from:

Strawberries Tomatoes

Collard Greens Planting Dates by State

Click your state for collard greens planting dates specific to your location:

Note: Planting dates are based on average frost dates from NOAA Climate Normals (30-year averages). Actual conditions vary year to year. Always check your local forecast before planting frost-sensitive crops.

Last reviewed: March 29, 2026