Collard greens are a traditional Southern crop in North Carolina, prized for their nutritional value and robust flavor. This leafy green, a non-heading member of the Brassica oleracea family, is resilient and handles a wide range of temperatures, allowing for two distinct planting seasons in the state. The best time to plant collards depends on whether a gardener seeks a quick spring harvest or the superior, sweeter leaves of a fall-to-winter crop.
Spring Planting Timing
Planting collards in the spring allows for a harvest before the intense heat of summer. Gardeners should start seeds indoors four to six weeks before the last expected spring frost date. Transplants can be set out three to four weeks before this final frost, as collards are cold-hardy. Since last frost dates vary widely across the state, local knowledge is important for timing. The goal is a quick harvest, as consistently high temperatures cause the plants to bolt, making the leaves tough and bitter.
Fall and Winter Planting Timing
The fall and winter planting period yields a sweeter, more tender leaf. The ideal planting window begins in mid-summer and extends into early fall, typically from July through September. Transplants should be set out six to eight weeks before the first expected fall frost date.
This timing ensures the plants are established when cold weather arrives. The improved flavor comes from cold-sweetening, where the plant converts stored starches into simple sugars. These sugars act as a natural antifreeze, enhancing the sweetness of the leaves. Since North Carolina’s first frost ranges from early October to mid-November, planting in mid-to-late summer allows collards to benefit from this transformation. Collards can withstand temperatures as low as 15 degrees Fahrenheit, and the harvest can be extended into winter using row covers or cold frames.
Basic Requirements for Successful Collard Growth
Successful collard production depends on providing the right environmental conditions. Collards require at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. While they tolerate partial shade, full sun promotes the vigorous growth needed for a substantial harvest.
The soil should be rich, fertile, and well-draining, with a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 6.0 to 6.8. Amending the soil with organic matter, like compost, provides the ample nitrogen needed for deep green color and tender leaf growth. Consistent moisture is necessary, requiring about one to one and a half inches of water per week, especially during dry periods. Plants should be spaced 18 to 24 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation and maximum leaf expansion.