Collard Greens

Collards thrive in fertile, well-drained soil around pH 6.0-7.5 and tolerate heat better than many other cabbage-family greens. Add compost and side-dress lightly with nitrogen after heavy picking to keep new leaves coming.

Sun

Full sun

Water

Even moisture; about 1 in/week including rain

Spacing

18 in

First harvest

60–85 days

Tips

• Sow 1/4-1/2 inch deep and thin or transplant to 18-24 inches apart for full-sized plants.
• Provide about 1 inch of water weekly and mulch to conserve moisture.
• Use insect netting and inspect leaf undersides for cabbageworms, whiteflies, and aphids.
• Remove damaged lower leaves, but never cut out the central growing tip when seeking repeated harvests.
• Pick lower leaves while tender, leaving several healthy upper leaves to support regrowth.