How to Grow Collard greens in Raised Beds

How to Grow Collard greens

Collards take heat better than spinach and hold through frost better than lettuce. They are a staple in the South and a worthwhile fall crop farther north. Give each plant room — they get large.

Key growing facts for Collard greens
Spacing	18 in
Soil	Fertile, well-drained
Sunlight	6–8 hours
Planting depth	Transplant at pot depth; seed ½ inch
Water	Steady; they are leafy and thirsty in heat
Days to harvest	Often 55–80 days; baby leaves sooner

Soil requirements

Compost-rich mix. They are brassicas — hungry, but not cauliflower-fussy.

Watering

Mulch in summer. Raised beds dry the big leaf canopy out faster than in-ground rows.

Sunlight

Full sun. Light shade in the Deep South in midsummer is a plus.

Planting

Spring and late-summer plantings. Frost sweetens leaves.
Harvest lower leaves; keep the growing tip.

Spacing

18 inches. One per square foot is the usual pattern.

Common problems

Cabbage worms
Row cover or regular inspection. Same pest complex as kale.
Aphids
Hose off; avoid blasting open hearts into rot.

Helpful tools

Row cover
Harvest knife

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Frequently asked questions

Collards or kale in a small bed?

Both work. Collards are usually more heat-tolerant. Kale is more cold-ornamental. Flavor is a kitchen preference.