Growing Collard Greens in Zone 3a
Zone 3a has harsh winters and a short growing season. Start Collard Greens early indoors to maximize your harvest window. Last frost: May 22. First frost: Sep 12.
Planting Calendar
Season: May 22 – Sep 12 (113 days)
When to Plant Collard Greens in Zone 3a
Start Seeds Indoors: Apr 10
Start Collard Greens seeds indoors around Apr 10 (6 weeks before last frost). Optimal germination temperature: 70°F. Germinates in 5–10 days.
Transplant Outdoors: May 1
Transplant Collard Greens seedlings outdoors after May 1. Wait until soil temperature reaches 45°F. Space plants at 18/sqft. Harden off plants for a week before moving outside.
Harvest: Jun 20
First harvest approximately Jun 20 (~50 days from transplant). Continue harvesting until first frost (Sep 12). Collard Greens can overwinter in mild climates for continued harvest.
Fall Planting: Jul 4
For a fall harvest, plant Collard Greens around Jul 4 (10 weeks before first frost).
Collard Greens in Other Zones
1a 1b 2a 2b 3a 3b 4a 4b 5a 5b 6a 6b 7a 7b 8a 8b 9a 9b 10a 10b 11a 11b 12a 12b 13a 13bFrequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Collard Greens in Zone 3a?
Start Collard Greens seeds indoors around Apr 10. Transplant outdoors after May 1. Expect first harvest around Jun 20.
What is the last frost date for Zone 3a?
The average last spring frost date for Zone 3a is May 22. The first fall frost averages Sep 12, giving a 113-day growing season.
Can I grow Collard Greens in Zone 3a?
Yes. Collard Greens needs 60 days to harvest. Zone 3a has a 113-day growing season, which is sufficient.
What is the best month to plant Collard Greens in Zone 3a?
The best time to start Collard Greens in Zone 3a is Apr. Begin seeds indoors around Apr 10, then transplant outdoors after the last frost date of May 22.
How long does Collard Greens take to harvest?
Collard Greens takes approximately 60 days from planting to harvest. In Zone 3a, expect your first harvest around Jun 20.
Plan Your Collard Greens Garden
Track Collard Greens from seed to harvest with personalized frost dates, watering recommendations, and companion planting visualization.
Start Free Collard Greens Growing Guide