[jamesbrownontheroad]

Having got carried away with our first summer harvests (don't get me started, I'd bore you like a proud parent) we've completed neglected to think about our winter planting - beyond the brussel sprouts that are already in and doing well.

We'd really like to get some kale in, but haven't even started. Is it too late to get some seeds and start them off indoors? We live in Glasgow, so usually work to a slightly delayed calendar anyway

Many thanks

[DavidT]

I would say you are a bit late for the kale, but why not sow some spring cabbage instead.

[jamesbrownontheroad]

I would say you are a bit late for the kale, but why not sow some spring cabbage instead.

Tempting... a shame though, because we inherited some kale plants with our allotment last winter and were just blown away with it. A real winter treat... I might ask around the allotment and see if there are any spare seedlings or plants that haven't been planted out yet. Fingers crossed.

Thanks for the prompt answer...

[mumofstig]

Black kale should be sown up till the end of June for winterharvest, and till august for salad leaves, and as you're a bit behind (timewise) I'd say give it a go
look here

[LivvyW]

Jamesbrownontheroad, just to pass on a lesson that took me a good while to learn.

I too need to work to a delayed schedule, being up in the mountains here in Ireland, everything is up to a month later than so many others.

But when it comes to planting to over winter we need to start earlier not later.  Plants need to get the benifit of a bit of growth before our short summer is over.   Kinda obvious now isn't it.?

I didn't twig until i spent all winter willing my spring onion like leeks to grow.

If you want to know what to do now, start reading the "What to do in Aug/Sept" articles.

Hope you find some kale plants.

[Rangerkris]

I might have 4-5 seedling of Redbore kale i can send up, i will double check later today and get back to you tonight.  Im sure they are in the green house  im in love with my kale toooooooooo hahahahahahaha ive battered my first lot and no doubt damaged it for the winter but never mind i will just sow more next year.

[Aidy]

I always start my kale off about now so no your not too late, kale grows fairly quick and you will have plenty in the dark winter months. The three I grow is drawf curly green, redboor and black tuscan.

[Debz]

I am also in Glasgow and have often started things too late because other things got in the way.  What have you got to lose from sticking in a few seeds.  With the weather being as warm and wet even here recently, the garden is growing like topsy.  This weekend I am planning to put in a few beetroot, carrots and spring cabbages because I have a little space and will make the time.  If I get nothing then it won't have cost me a great deal.  If the crops come even small ones, then bonus!

[jamesbrownontheroad]

Thanks for all the tips and info (and the rather generous offer Rangerkris, although I think we'll risk sowing some seeds asap and ask around our plot for any spares). We'll go ahead and try for some, but keep most of the seeds safe for next year.

Ta all...

[Munchkin]

I really want to plant sow some kale now. Has anyone been successful at sowing in Autumn?

[mumofstig]

if it was too late in July do you really think it would grow in October 

In a greenhouse or coldframe you may get some small salad leaves, but that's about it IMO

[Fisherman]

I sow Kale in August each year and get a reasonable crop. Sowing now is too late in my opinion unless you are providing the plants with artificial heat and light. Sorry