How to Grow Red Siberian Kale
Red Siberian Kale
Brassica napus subsp. pabularia
vegetableRed Siberian kale is a cold-hardy, non-heading brassica with deeply lobed, ruffled leaves that range from red-purple to blue-green in color. It thrives in cool climates and becomes sweeter after frost, making it an excellent winter crop. This variety is prized for its tenderness and exceptional flavor compared to other kale types.
When should you plant Red Siberian Kale in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Red Siberian Kale timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
-
Plant Red Siberian Kale
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
-
Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
-
Harvest Red Siberian Kale
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Red Siberian Kale dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 2-9, with best performance in zones 3-7 and cool-season areas
Sign up free to see if Red Siberian Kale grows in your zone — and get a personalized planting timeline.
Get my Red Siberian Kale timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
10-14 daysTiny seed leaves emerge, followed by first true leaves with slight lobing
Keep soil consistently moist. Thin seedlings to proper spacing when 2-3 inches tall. Protect from heavy rain if direct seeded.
Vegetative Growth
20-35 daysPlant develops characteristic deeply lobed, ruffled leaves. Foliage expands rapidly and leaves begin showing red-purple coloration
Water consistently and side-dress with compost or balanced fertilizer every 3-4 weeks. Remove any damaged outer leaves. Watch for pests.
Leaf Development & Color Deepening
15-25 daysMature leaf structure fully formed with pronounced ruffles and deeper red-purple coloring, especially after cool nights
Begin light harvesting of outer leaves. Frost exposure deepens color and sweetens flavor. Continue consistent watering and feeding.
Harvest & Production
60+ daysPlant reaches full size with vibrant red-purple ruffled leaves. Can continuously produce new growth when harvested properly
Harvest outer leaves regularly to encourage continued production. Plant can produce for 3-6 months depending on climate. In fall/winter, production slows but flavor improves.
Winter Hardiness & Flowering
Varies by regionPlant survives freezing temperatures, becoming even sweeter. If overwintered, will eventually bolt and flower in spring
No additional care needed in winter; plant is very cold-hardy. If bolting occurs in spring, harvest before flowering or allow to seed if desired.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
-
Row covers when young; Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) spray; handpick; encourage parasitic wasps
-
Row covers; neem oil spray; diatomaceous earth; kaolin clay; avoid overwatering
-
Strong water spray; insecticidal soap; neem oil; encourage ladybugs and parasitic wasps
-
Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt); handpick; row covers; encourage natural predators
-
Cardboard collars around seedlings; diatomaceous earth; handpick at night; encourage ground beetles
Uses
Raw salads and smoothies
CulinaryRed Siberian kale is tenderer and milder than many kale varieties, making it excellent for raw consumption in salads, slaws, and nutrient-dense smoothies. The ruffled leaves add visual appeal and delicate texture. [source]
Cooked greens and soups
CulinarySauté, braise, or add to soups and stews. After frost, the increased sugar content makes it particularly flavorful. Pairs well with garlic, olive oil, and lemon. [source]
Nutritional powerhouse
MedicinalHigh in vitamins A, C, and K, plus calcium, iron, and antioxidants. Contains glucosinolates, compounds with potential anti-cancer properties. Cold storage and frost exposure may increase nutrient density. [source]
Ornamental landscaping
HouseholdThe deeply ruffled, burgundy-red foliage makes Red Siberian kale attractive in ornamental gardens, vegetable borders, and containers. Provides season-long visual interest and winter color. [source]
Wildlife and pollinator support
WildlifeIf allowed to bolt and flower in spring, produces abundant yellow flowers attractive to bees and other pollinators. Provides winter shelter and food for beneficial insects. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Begin harvesting outer leaves when plants are 12-18 inches tall, typically 4-6 weeks after planting. Pinch or cut leaves from the bottom up, leaving the growing center intact. Harvest in morning after frost for sweetest flavor. Regular harvesting encourages more leaf production. Continue harvesting throughout fall and into winter; plant becomes sweeter after several frosts. Cut entire plant at soil level if needed, or allow to regrow from the crown.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Red Siberian kale becomes noticeably sweeter after the first frost, as the plant converts starches to sugars as a natural antifreeze mechanism.
- 🌱 This variety originates from cold regions of Siberia and can survive temperatures well below freezing—some plants remain productive even in zone 2 winters.
- 🌱 Red Siberian kale is technically a descendant of wild cabbage and shares the same species genetics as many cruciferous vegetables despite its dramatically different appearance.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
Join 30,000 gardeners planning their gardens with LizPlants.
Get your personalized Red Siberian Kale planting timeline
Tell us your zip code and we'll calculate exactly when to start Red Siberian Kale seeds, transplant seedlings, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Includes calendar reminders and printable task lists. Free to start.
Get my Red Siberian Kale timeline →