Knowing when to pick collard greens is the secret to getting the best flavor and texture from your garden. This guide will help you understand the best time for harvesting, whether you want tender young leaves or hearty mature ones.
Getting the timing right makes all the difference. Pick to early, and you won’t get much to eat. Pick to late, and the leaves can become tough and bitter. Let’s look at the signs that your collards are ready.
When to Pick Collard Greens
You can actually harvest collard greens at several stages. The best time depends on your personal taste and how you plan to use them.
For “Baby” Collard Greens
You can start picking very young leaves about 3-4 weeks after planting. These are often called “baby” collards.
- Leaves are 4 to 6 inches long.
- They have a tender, mild flavor, perfect for salads.
- Use a clean knife or scissors to cut individual leaves from the outer part of the plant.
- This method allows the inner core to keep producing new growth.
For Full-Sized, Mature Leaves
This is the most common way to harvest. Mature leaves have developed their full, robust flavor.
- Typically ready 50-75 days after transplanting, depending on the variety.
- Leaves are dark green, firm, and 8-12 inches long (about the size of your hand).
- They should feel thick and substantial, not flimsy.
The “Whole Plant” Harvest
Sometimes, you may need to harvest the entire plant at once, especially before a hard freeze.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the main stem at ground level.
- This is best done when the plant is at its peak size, before any sign of flowering.
Seasonal Timing: Spring vs. Fall Harvests
Collards are a cool-season crop, and the time of year you grow them affects the harvest.
Spring-Planted Collards
Plant in early spring for a late spring or early summer harvest. Watch out for warming temperatures.
- Heat can cause leaves to become more bitter and bolt (flower).
- Harvest spring collards a bit younger to ensure tenderness before the summer heat arrives.
Fall-Planted Collards (Often the Best)
Many gardeners believe fall-grown collards have superior taste. The plants mature in cool weather.
- A light frost is actually beneficial. It triggers the plant to convert starches to sugars, making the leaves taste sweeter.
- You can often harvest from fall plants right through winter in mild climates, as they are very cold-tolerant.
Step-by-Step: How to Harvest Collard Greens Correctly
Proper technique ensures your plant keeps producing for months. Here’s how to do it.
- Gather Your Tools: Use clean, sharp garden scissors or a knife. This makes a clean cut that heals fast.
- Start from the Bottom: Always harvest the oldest, lowest leaves on the plant first. These are the largest and most mature.
- Make a Clean Cut: Cut the leaf stem about 1-2 inches from the main central stalk. Avoid tearing or yanking the leaf, as this can damage the plant’s growth point.
- Leave the Center Alone: Never remove the small, young leaves growing from the very center (the terminal bud). This is where all new growth comes from.
- Regular Picking is Key: Check your plants every 3-7 days. Regular harvesting signals the plant to produce more leaves.
Clear Signs Your Collards Are Ready to Pick
Look for these visual and tactile clues in the garden.
- Size & Color: Leaves are a deep, dark green and have reached their expected mature size (check your seed packet).
- Texture: Leaves feel sturdy and substantial but are not yet tough or leathery. They should still bend without snapping.
- Plant Form: A healthy, harvest-ready plant will have a strong central stalk with a rosette of large leaves.
Warning Signs: When It’s Too Late to Harvest
Sometimes, you might miss the ideal window. Here’s what to avoid.
- Bolting: If the central stalk rapidly elongates and starts to produce a flower stalk, the leaves will quickly become bitter. Harvest immediately if you see this beginning.
- Yellowing Leaves: Older leaves starting to yellow are past their prime. Remove them to keep the plant healthy, but they won’t taste great.
- Extreme Toughness: If leaves feel very thick, leathery, or have a woody stem running through them, they are over-mature. They may still be usable in long-cooked dishes, but won’t be tender.
How to Store Your Freshly Picked Collards
Proper storage keeps your harvest fresh for over a week.
- Gently wash the leaves in cool water to remove any dirt or bugs.
- Pat them completely dry with a towel or use a salad spinner. Moisture causes rot.
- Wrap the dry leaves loosely in a slightly damp paper towel.
- Place the bundle inside a perforated plastic bag or a reusable produce bag.
- Store in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. They should stay crisp and fresh for 7-10 days, sometimes longer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you harvest collard greens after a frost?
Yes, absolutely. In fact, a light frost improves their flavor by making them sweeter. They are one of the most cold-hardy vegetables you can grow.
How many times can you harvest from one collard plant?
Many times! If you use the “cut-and-come-again” method of taking outer leaves, a single plant can produce for several months, often from late summer right into winter.
What time of day is best for harvesting collards?
The best time is in the cool of the morning, after the dew has dried but before the afternoon sun. Leaves are crisp and full of moisture then, which helps with storage.
Do collard greens grow back?
They do. As long as you harvest correctly by leaving the central growing bud intact, the plant will continue to send up new leaves from the center.
Can I eat collard greens that have turned yellow?
It’s not recommended for taste. Yellow leaves are usually declining in flavor and nutrients. It’s better to compost them and pick the healthy green leaves instead.
Final Tips for a Great Harvest
Keep your plants healthy for the longest harvest window. Water consistently, especially during dry spells, to prevent tough leaves. Feed them with a balanced organic fertilizer every 4-6 weeks to support continuous leaf production. Watch for pests like cabbage worms and remove them promptly.
Remember, the more you pick, the more the plant produces. Don’t be afraid to harvest regularly. If you have a glut, collards freeze beautifully after a quick blanching. With these tips, you’ll know exactly when to pick collard greens for perfect results everytime.