Redbor F1
Kale in the UK
You'll get deep purple-red frilly leaves with this one, looks amazing in the winter garden. It's not just a pretty face though, it tastes good too.
Sow window for Kale generally.
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How to grow it
You can sow kale seeds from April right through to July, either direct into the ground where they'll grow, or like I often do, into modules in the cold frame. Just push 'em down about 1cm deep, give 'em a good drink, and they'll be up in no time. If you're sowing direct, make sure the soil's well prepared first, you know, a nice bit of compost dug in. For a continuous supply, sow a small batch every few weeks. They like a bit of warmth to get going, but not too hot, around 10-20°C is grand.
Once your seedlings have got about four to six proper leaves, they're ready to go out. Harden them off first if they've been indoors, mind, especially if it's still a bit nippy. Plant them quite firmly, about 45-60cm apart, as kale gets big, so give it space. You can pop 'em in big containers too if your plot's a bit on the small side, just make sure they've got enough room for their roots.
More Kale varieties
Track your Kale from packet to plate
Sowing reminders and harvest forecasts for your own frost dates, the Seed Tin, Scan Centre for any label or packet, and the Potty Mouth Garden Club. Free to start.
Allotment keeper in the North East of England, the voice behind the Tony C Smith YouTube channel, and the gardener who built GrowMore CookMore. Club numbers on this page update as members log their plots. Last updated 3 September 2026.