I have had mixed results growing winter brassicas organically in a 7 climate . The City garden , which is regularly patrolled by a flock of habituated tiny birds , does not get aphids etc any more except on the bottom leaves where the birds don't land .

The Island garden has seen the leaves eaten down to the very STALKS by crickets . I have personally never tried growing them under cover except in the very earliest spring when I dig and plant lettuce and broccoli seeds right after the first frost and cover with remay to keep birds off and provide a bit of insulation against harsh weather .

My kale and broccoli , gorgeous blue cabbage and brussels sprouts and leeks seem to do JUST FINE coverless over the winter . As soon as the increased sunlight hits in Febuary I can start harvesting tender new leaves and even flowers .

Good info Artist, thanks.

my kale - unprotected - is fine so far, a very mild winter overall, but an unexpected low 1 night took out my cauliflower.....trying again in 2012, lol!

I reckon if you see new growth around feb - in zone 5 I'll have to wait till march....

With the super mild weather, I think a lot will pull through. I have 1 bed not protected - but will try to erect something if dire weather is predicted....1 bed with quick hoops and argibond 19 for frost protection....may go to platic on that when weather turns.

Highs are all above freezing for the rest of the year! Lowest lows at 26....

Wonder what january will bring? At any rate, I'm glad for the late start, and hope it continues mild.....no white xmas for the kiddies....but they don't listen to bing crosby anyway :)