How to Start Collard Greens From Seed
Collards are dependable cool-season greens that can be started from seed indoors or directly in the garden. They tolerate light frost and often taste milder after cool weather.
Start indoors or direct sow?
Start indoors for early harvests, or direct sow when garden conditions are favorable. Unlike root crops, young collard seedlings transplant well if handled promptly.
When to start Collard Greens seeds
Start indoors 4 to 6 weeks before the last spring frost and transplant about 2 to 3 weeks before that date. Direct sow 2 to 4 weeks before the last frost, or sow in mid to late summer for fall harvest.
How to sow the seeds
Sow seeds 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep in moist seed-starting mix. Use cell trays with cells about 1 to 2 inches wide, with one or two seeds per cell, then keep them in bright conditions after emergence.
Germination
Seeds generally germinate in 5 to 10 days. Soil near 60 to 75 F and steady, light moisture produce reliable germination.
Seedling care
Provide bright grow lights or a sunny window supplemented with light, and avoid overwatering. Use clean containers and good air circulation to prevent damping off, then thin to one sturdy seedling per cell or 18 to 24 inches apart in the garden.
Transplanting & hardening off
Harden off seedlings for 7 to 10 days, gradually increasing their outdoor exposure. Transplant on a mild or cloudy day at the same depth as in the cell, spacing plants about 18 to 24 inches apart.
Tips
Sow a few seeds every couple of weeks for a longer harvest. Keep soil moisture even, because drought stress can slow growth and make leaves tougher.
General seed-starting guidance for US home gardens; timing depends on your local frost dates and variety. Page updated Aug 4, 2026.