What is wrong with the leaves of this Lacinato kale?
Lacinato kale showing symptoms of cold damage.
Justin Ballew, ©2025, Clemson Extension
This kale is showing symptoms of cold damage on the older leaves. Lacinato kale seems to be a little more sensitive to the cold than curly varieties like Winterbor or Darkibor. Luckily, the new growth is fine, meaning the plant will grow out of this damage. While most leafy greens are fairly cold tolerant, they may experience damage when cold weather follows a period of warm weather and rapid growth. Row covers can help prevent this damage in smaller plantings.
