If you’re a fan of hearty southern-style dishes featuring collard greens, you’ll be glad to know that you can easily grow them in containers right on your patio or in a sunny indoor garden.
Growing collard greens in containers is a great way to have a fresh supply of healthy greens at your fingertips without having to run to the grocery store every time you want to make your favorite recipe.
Not only are collard greens delicious, but they are also packed with nutrients like vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and iron. Growing your own collard greens in containers is an easy way to ensure that you have a fresh, healthy supply of these nutritious greens.
Plus, growing collard greens in containers is a great option for those with limited space or who live in areas with poor soil quality. With the right container and growing conditions, you can easily grow collard greens right at home.
Choosing the Right Container
When growing collard greens in containers, it’s important to choose the right container to ensure the best growth and yield.
Collard greens can grow quite large, so it’s important to choose a container that is big enough to accommodate their size.
A container that is at least 12-16 inches deep and wide is ideal. If you plan on growing more than one plant in a container, make sure to leave enough space between them to prevent overcrowding.
If you’re planning on growing multiple collard green plants, consider using a large container. A large container can hold more soil, which means that your collard greens will have more room to grow and develop. Additionally, a large container will also help to prevent overcrowding, which can lead to stunted growth and poor yields.
Plastic pots, terracotta, and fabric grow bags all make fine containers for collard greens.
When choosing a pot to plant collard greens in, the type of material it’s made out of doesn’t really matter. What matters most is that the container is sturdy and durable.
Make sure that the container you choose has enough drainage holes to allow excess water to flow out. Without proper drainage, the roots of your collard greens can become waterlogged, which can lead to root rot and other issues.
If you’re planning on growing multiple collard green plants, consider using a large container. A large container can hold more soil, which means that your collard greens will have more room to grow and develop. Additionally, a large container will also help to prevent overcrowding, which can lead to stunted growth and poor yields.
Preparing the Soil
To grow healthy and productive collard greens in containers, you should prepare the soil properly. Here are some steps you can take to ensure that your soil is fertile, well-drained, and has the right pH level:
Choose the Right Soil
Collard greens thrive in well-drained, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. When growing collard greens in containers, it’s best to use a high-quality potting soil that is specifically formulated for container gardening. This type of soil is usually lighter and more porous than regular garden soil, which helps to promote good drainage and aeration.
Test the Soil pH
Collard greens prefer a slightly acidic soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 6.5. You can test the pH level of your soil using a soil test kit, which you can purchase at most garden centers. If your soil is too acidic, you can add lime to raise the pH level. If it’s too alkaline, you can add sulfur to lower the pH level.
Add Organic Matter
Adding organic matter to your soil is an excellent way to improve its fertility and structure. Compost, aged manure, and leaf mold are all great sources of organic matter that can be added to your soil. You can also use commercial organic fertilizers that are specifically formulated for container gardening.
Ensure Good Drainage
Collard greens require well-drained soil to grow properly. If your container doesn’t have drainage holes, you’ll need to drill some in the bottom to allow excess water to escape. You can also add a layer of gravel or sand to the bottom of your container to improve drainage.
Selecting the Varieties
When it comes to growing collard greens in containers, selecting the right variety is crucial. You want to choose a type that is well-suited for container gardening and will thrive in your growing conditions. Here are some popular varieties to consider:
- Vates: This is a classic variety that is well-suited for container gardening. It produces dark green, crinkly leaves that are tender and flavorful. Vates collards are also resistant to bolting, which means they won’t go to seed too quickly.
- Champion: Another popular variety, Champion collards produce large, dark green leaves that are slightly crumpled. They are slow to bolt and have a mild, sweet flavor. Champion collards are also known for their high yields, which makes them a great choice for container gardening.
- Morris Heading: It is favored for its large, flavorful leaves and heat tolerance, which make it well-suited to growing in containers. In fact, it is recommend specifically for container gardening, especially in fall and winter in zones 7 and south. By providing your Morris Heading collards with the right growing conditions, such as adequate sunlight, water, and nutrients, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious and nutritious greens.
- Top Bunch: A hybrid variety that produces tender and flavorful leaves, and has a long harvest season. Top Bunch grows well in containers, and is known for its compact growth habit. This makes it an excellent choice for gardeners who want to grow collard greens in small spaces.
- Tiger Hybrid: They’re known for their ornamental value, as well as their delicious and tender leaves. The leaves of the Tiger Hybrid variety have a unique variegated pattern which adds interest to any container garden. This variety is also very productive, yielding large and flavorful leaves.
When selecting a variety, consider your growing conditions and personal taste preferences. Some varieties may be better suited for cooler climates, while others may thrive in warmer temperatures. Additionally, some varieties may have a stronger flavor than others, so it’s important to choose one that you enjoy.
Planting and Sowing
To sow collard green seeds, make small holes in the soil about a quarter-inch deep and an inch apart. Place one seed in each hole and cover with soil. Water gently to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Collard green seeds typically germinate within 5-10 days.
If you are transplanting collard green seedlings into containers, make sure to do so when they are about 4-6 weeks old and have at least two sets of true leaves.
Gently remove the seedlings from their original container and place them in the new container, making sure to cover the roots with soil. Water well and keep the soil moist until the plants are established.
Providing Adequate Sunlight and Temperature
When growing collard greens in containers, it is essential to provide them with adequate sunlight and temperature. Collard greens require at least six hours of direct sunlight each day to thrive, so it is best to plant them in a spot that receives full sun.
However, they also prefer to stay cool, so if you are planting in late summer, your collard greens may appreciate a bit of afternoon shade.
If you are growing collard greens indoors, place them near a south-facing window where they can receive as much sunlight as possible. You can also use grow lights to provide them with the necessary light. Keep in mind that indoor temperatures should be between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth.
To ensure that your collard greens are getting enough sunlight, you can use a sunlight meter to measure the amount of light they are receiving. If the meter indicates that the plants are not getting enough sunlight, you can move them to a sunnier spot or use a reflective surface to redirect the sunlight towards the plants.
Watering and Fertilizing
Collard greens require consistent moisture to grow healthy and strong. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other plant diseases.
To determine when to water, stick your finger into the soil. If it feels dry to the touch, it’s time to water. Water the plants deeply and slowly to ensure the water reaches the roots.
If you live in a hot and dry climate, you may need to water your collard greens more frequently. Conversely, if you live in a cooler and more humid environment, you may need to water less often.
Fertilizing
Collard greens are heavy feeders, meaning they require a lot of nutrients to grow. Fertilize your container-grown collard greens every two to three weeks with a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 formula.
You can also use organic fertilizers, such as fish emulsion or compost tea, to feed your plants. These types of fertilizers provide slow-release nutrients to the plants and improve soil health.
When applying fertilizer, follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Over-fertilization can lead to burnt leaves and stunted growth.
In addition to regular fertilization, you can also add a layer of organic mulch around your plants. This will help retain moisture in the soil and provide additional nutrients to the plants as the mulch decomposes.
Dealing with Pests and Diseases
When growing collard greens in containers, it is important to be aware of pests and diseases that can affect your plants.
Pests
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can be found on the underside of leaves. They can cause damage by sucking the sap from the leaves and transmitting viruses. To control aphids, you can spray your plants with a mixture of water and dish soap or use insecticidal soap.
Cabbage Loopers and Cabbage Worms
Cabbage loopers and cabbage worms are the larvae of moths that can cause damage to collard greens by eating holes in the leaves. To control these pests, you can handpick them off your plants or use Bacillus thuringiensis (BT), a natural insecticide that targets caterpillars.
Flea Beetles
Flea beetles are small, black beetles that can cause damage to collard greens by eating small holes in the leaves. To control flea beetles, you can use row covers to protect your plants or spray them with neem oil.
Diseases
Black Rot
Black rot is a bacterial disease that can cause wilting, yellowing, and blackening of the leaves. To prevent black rot, make sure to plant your collard greens in well-draining soil and avoid overcrowding your plants. If you notice signs of black rot, remove and discard infected plants immediately.
Clubroot
Clubroot is a fungal disease that can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To prevent clubroot, make sure to plant your collard greens in well-draining soil and avoid planting them in the same spot for more than two years. If you notice signs of clubroot, remove and discard infected plants immediately.
Downy Mildew
Downy mildew is a fungal disease that can cause yellowing and curling of the leaves. To prevent downy mildew, make sure to plant your collard greens in a location with good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. If you notice signs of downy mildew, remove and discard infected plants immediately.
By being aware of these common pests and diseases and taking preventative measures, you can grow healthy and delicious collard greens in containers.
Harvesting and Utilizing
Once your collard greens have reached maturity, it’s time to harvest them. The leaves can be harvested when they are young and tender for use in salads, or when they are more mature for cooking.
To harvest the leaves, simply cut them off at the base of the stem using a sharp knife or scissors. Be sure to leave a few leaves on the plant so that it can continue to grow.
Collard greens are a great addition to any meal, whether they are eaten raw or cooked. When eaten raw, they add a delicious crunch to salads. When cooked, they become tender and flavorful.
One of the great things about collard greens is their high yield. You can continue to harvest leaves from the same plant for several months. In fact, the more you harvest, the more the plant will produce.
To store your collard greens, wrap them in a damp paper towel and place them in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to a week.
In addition to being a tasty and nutritious addition to your meals, collard greens are also packed with health benefits. They are high in vitamins K, A, and C, as well as fiber and calcium. So, be sure to include them in your diet regularly.
Growing Collard Greens in Different Seasons
Collard greens are a cool-weather crop that grows best in spring and fall. However, with proper care, you can grow them all year round, including summer and winter. Here’s how to grow collard greens in different seasons:
Spring
In spring, plant your collard greens 2-4 weeks before the last frost date. You can start them indoors or sow seeds directly in containers. Collard greens prefer rich, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5. Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Thin seedlings to 12-18 inches apart when they reach 2-3 inches tall.
Summer
Growing collard greens in summer can be challenging because they prefer cooler temperatures. However, you can still grow them if you choose a suitable variety and provide shade and moisture.
Plant collard greens in containers that receive morning sun and afternoon shade. Water them regularly and mulch the soil to retain moisture. Harvest the leaves when they are young and tender to avoid bitterness.
Fall
Fall is the best time to grow collard greens because they thrive in cool weather. Plant them in late summer or early fall, 6-8 weeks before the first frost date.
Choose a variety that is cold-tolerant and bolt-resistant. Water them regularly and fertilize with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks. Harvest the leaves when they are mature but still tender.
Winter
Growing collard greens in winter requires extra care because they are susceptible to frost damage. Plant them in containers that can be moved indoors or under a shelter when the temperature drops below freezing. Choose a variety that is hardy and can withstand cold temperatures. Water them sparingly and protect them from strong winds. Harvest the leaves when they are young and tender.
Common Questions and Troubleshooting
Growing collard greens in containers can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it’s not without its challenges. Here are some common questions and troubleshooting tips to help you along the way.
How do I prevent my collard greens from tasting bitter?
If your collard greens taste bitter, it could be due to a variety of factors. First, make sure you are harvesting them at the right time. Overly mature leaves can taste bitter. Additionally, high temperatures can cause collard greens to taste bitter, so make sure they are getting enough shade during the hottest parts of the day. Finally, some varieties of collard greens are naturally more bitter than others, so consider trying a different variety if you are consistently experiencing bitterness.
How do I control humidity in my container garden?
Collard greens prefer a humid environment, but too much humidity can lead to fungal diseases. To control humidity, make sure your container has adequate drainage and is not sitting in standing water. Additionally, you can use a humidity tray or a humidifier to maintain the ideal level of humidity.
How long does it take for collard greens to germinate?
Collard greens typically take 7-14 days to germinate. Make sure you are planting them in well-draining soil and keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Additionally, make sure your container is in a warm location, as collard greens prefer temperatures between 60-65°F for optimal germination.
Can collard greens be grown in the Southern US?
Yes, collard greens are a staple in Southern cuisine and can be grown in the Southern US. In fact, collard greens are often associated with Southern cuisine and are a popular side dish in many Southern households.
Can collard greens be grown in Georgia?
Yes, collard greens can be grown in Georgia. Georgia is located in USDA hardiness zones 7-9, which are ideal for growing collard greens. Make sure you are planting them in the right season and providing them with adequate sunlight and water.
Can collard greens be grown in Mediterranean climates?
Yes, collard greens can be grown in Mediterranean climates. However, they may require additional shade during the hottest parts of the day and will need to be watered more frequently to compensate for the dry climate. Make sure you are planting them in well-draining soil and providing them with adequate nutrients to help them thrive in this type of climate.
