Here (zone 5.x, central NY), I get really poor germination rates on
seeds (radishes, kale, beets) that I start after early July. And, thos
that do germinate just languish - they never get their 'growth spurt'.

This year, a woodchuck cleaned out our kale, and I thought that was
that. But, at the market today, a guy who I know grows kale, said he
still hasn't planted it yet. All he'd say is, "You just have to know
what you're doing."

I'm going to give it another try; but, any thoughts would be
appreciated.

Thanks,
George