Overwintering guide
How to overwinter 'red russian' kale
Winter watering
No winter watering needed in open ground. Containers only need water in long dry, frost-free spells.
The mistake that kills 'red russian' kale in winter
Cutting 'red russian' kale hard back in autumn "to tidy up". That removes the growth that shelters the crown, and on some plants removes next season's flower buds entirely.
More 'red russian' kale care
Overwintering 'red russian' kale — FAQ
Does 'red russian' kale need to come indoors for winter?
'Red Russian' Kale is hardy to roughly USDA zone 3 — winter lows around -40°C. That means it can stay outside all winter in most temperate gardens. 'Red Russian' Kale is properly hardy and overwinters outside without fuss. Tidy away anything dead or diseased, apply a mulch over the crown to steady soil temperatures, and otherwise leave it alone — many hardy plants actually need a cold period to flower and grow well the following year. Save hard pruning for the right season rather than doing it in autumn.
When should I move 'red russian' kale for winter?
Tidy and mulch in late autumn; leave the plant undisturbed until spring.
How often should I water 'red russian' kale in winter?
No winter watering needed in open ground. Containers only need water in long dry, frost-free spells.
What kills 'red russian' kale over winter?
Cutting 'red russian' kale hard back in autumn "to tidy up". That removes the growth that shelters the crown, and on some plants removes next season's flower buds entirely.