When to Plant Collard Greens in Regina, SK
Published: April 24, 2026 · Updated: April 27, 2026
Extremely cold-hardy leafy brassica — withstands temperatures to -10°C. Direct sow or transplant 3–4 weeks before last frost. Fall plantings produce the best-flavored greens after frost.
Regina's Canadian Zone 3b (USDA 3a) semi-arid continental climate is very similar to Saskatoon but Regina is one of Canada's windiest cities — wind protection is critical for young plants. At 125 frost-free days and minimal natural windbreaks on the flat prairie, sheltered microclimates matter.
Collard Greens Planting Calendar for Regina
Start seeds indoors: April 13–20
Transplant outdoors: April 27–May 7
Direct sow outdoors: April 27–May 7
Harvest window: June 26 – July 11
Minimum soil temperature: 7°C (45°F)
Days to harvest: 60–75 days
Sun requirement: Full sun to partial shade
Fall crop planting: July 12–22 (harvest September 10)
⚠ Direct sow or transplant collard greens 3–4 weeks before last frost. Extremely cold hardy — withstands temps to 15°F. Can be grown as a perennial in Zones 8+. Fall planting produces the best-flavored greens.
Regina Climate Notes
Regina's flat terrain offers no natural windbreaks. Use a sheltered south-facing garden wall or fence to create a warmer microclimate. Black plastic mulch warms soil 2-4°C and extends the effective season. Wind-resistant varieties and windbreak planting are standard practice for serious Regina gardeners.
Growing Tips for Collard Greens
- Harvest outer leaves continuously once plants reach 10 inches — the central growing point produces for months.
- In Zones 8+ collard greens often overwinter and produce for 2–3 years as a perennial.
- Frost improves flavor dramatically — southern tradition is to wait for the first frost before harvesting.
- Blanch and freeze excess harvest — collard greens freeze beautifully and provide winter vitamins.
Companion Planting in Regina
Pair collard green with Onion, Garlic, Dill, Celery for mutual benefit. Avoid planting near Tomato, Strawberry, Bean, which compete with or inhibit collard green growth.
Pests and Problems to Watch in Regina
The most common pest and disease pressure on collard greens in Regina comes from Cabbage Worm, Aphid, Flea Beetle, Cabbage Looper. Floating row covers through the first 4–6 weeks after planting block adult pests from laying eggs, and a weekly scouting routine catches infestations before they damage the crop.
Other Saskatchewan Cities
Frequently Asked Questions
When do I plant collard green in Regina?
Regina's last spring frost is around May 18. Start seeds indoors April 13–20. Transplant outdoors April 27–May 7.
What Canadian hardiness zone is Regina?
Regina is in Canadian Zone 3b (USDA equivalent 3a). The semi-arid windy Prairie climate delivers 125 frost-free days from May 18 to September 20, which shapes every planting date in the local calendar.
How long is Regina's growing season?
Regina has 125 frost-free days — from May 18 in spring to September 20 in fall. That is more than enough time to finish a full collard green crop (60–75 days to maturity) before the first fall frost.
Can I grow collard green in containers in Regina?
Yes. Container growing on balconies and decks is practical in Regina — choose a 5-gallon or larger dark-coloured container to warm the root zone, use a high-quality potting mix, and water daily during hot summer weather. In Canadian Zone 3–4, a sheltered south-facing location adds 2–3 weeks to the effective season.
What is the first fall frost in Regina?
Regina's average first fall frost is September 20. For a fall collard green crop, plant around July 12–22 so plants mature before the first killing frost.