Grow Perennial Kale From Cutting Or Seed For A Garden With Endless Greens

If you're the type of gardener who loves plants that practically take care of themselves, you no doubt appreciate the appeal of perennials. Unlike annuals that demand replanting every season, perennial varieties return year after year, keeping your garden green while sparing you from time-consuming planting. Many gardeners rely on classic choices like herbs and berry bushes, but leafy greens can also earn a permanent place in your planting beds. That's where perennial kale (Brassica oleracea var. Acephala) comes in. Instead of reseeding traditional kale each year, you can grow this long-lived variety from a cutting or a seed to enjoy a harvest that won't fade after just one cycle. It's an easy way to stretch your efforts, and once it's established, perennial kale thrives with minimal upkeep.

The benefits of growing perennial kale in your garden extend beyond just convenience. This hardy green is incredibly versatile in the kitchen, adding nutrition and flavor to everything from salads to stir-fry. Because it continues producing for multiple years, you'll always have a fresh supply on hand, meaning fewer trips to the grocery store and more variety in your homegrown meals. Its resilience makes it an excellent pick for gardeners who want a reliable crop that can withstand a range of weather conditions. It's one ornamental veggie that comes with major benefits, with leafy stalks that provide ground coverage and add visual interest to your garden beds. With varieties like Cavolo Nero, Taunton Deane, and Midnight Sun, perennial kale combines practicality, beauty, and sustainability, making it a crop that earns its keep both in the soil and on the plate.

Starting perennial kale from seeds is a difficult process, primarily due to the fact that they rarely produce flowers and seeds – and because perennial kale that is started from a seed can be finicky. If you choose to go ahead anyway, choose a well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Scatter the seeds lightly across the surface and cover them with a thin layer of soil. Make sure to water gently, but consistently. You should start your seeds indoors to control the number of plants that eventually make it to your garden. Keep the container in a sunny spot, and once seedlings emerge, thin them out so they have plenty of room to develop a root system. These early steps set the stage for a healthy, long-lived kale plant that can keep producing for years to come.

The easiest method for planting a perennial kale plant is to use a cutting, as this ensures the characteristics remain intact from the original plant. Select a large stem from an existing perennial kale plant, ideally one that isn't currently flowering. Cut the piece about 4 to 5 inches long. Remove the lower leaves, then place the stem either in water or directly into nutrient-rich soil. Roots typically develop within a few weeks, and soon after, the cutting will start to produce new leaves. Both seeds and cuttings benefit from a bit of extra attention at the beginning — consistent temperatures and moisture, plenty of light, and protection from pests like slugs and snails. Once your young plants' roots reach the base of their starter pots, transplant them into your garden bed, spacing them about 3 feet apart to allow ample room for growth. 

Once your perennial kale plants are established, they will need consistent, straightforward care to flourish. Regular watering is essential, particularly during hot or dry spells. Ensure that you aren't overwatering your kale plants, as it can quickly lead to waterlogged soil and root rot. A layer of mulch around the base can help suppress weed growth and retain moisture, giving your kale an ideal growing environment. Fertilizing every few months with compost or a balanced organic fertilizer will keep the soil enriched and encourage continuous leaf production. The more you harvest leaves, the more your plant will respond with new growth, so don't hesitate to pick often for meals and snacks.

Pruning always plays an important role in maintaining healthy perennial kale. Remove older, yellowing leaves to prevent disease from spreading and keep the plant looking fresh — just avoid using the chop and drop pruning method. In colder climates, perennial kale can withstand frost, but offering protection, such as row covers, will help the plant survive harsher winters. If you begin to notice reduced yields from your plant over time, simply take a new cutting and start the process over again. That way, your perennial kale can essentially live forever in your garden, always providing an abundant supply of fresh, leafy greens, even during colder months. With steady attention, regular harvests, and protection through the seasons, perennial kale proves itself as one of the easiest and most rewarding crops for gardeners seeking sustainability and convenience.