How to Grow Flowering Kale
Brassica oleracea, also known as flowering or ornamental kale, is an attractive choice for the fall garden. Flowering kale is a good complement to other fall bloomers, including pansies and chrysanthemums, and can be used in garden beds as well as containers. The plant is available in pink, purple and white cultivars. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Planting nursery-grown plants in full sun, once nighttime temperatures have dropped to 50 F. Temperatures between 45 and 50 F help the plants develop their color. The plants will bolt -- become leggy and go to seed -- in hot weather. The plants prefer slightly acidic soil, with a pH between 5.8 and 6.5.
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Dig small holes in containers or beds sized to the flowering kale's root ball. If a nursery seedling has elongated, you can plant them deeper, up to the first set of leaves for a longer-lasting plant, according to North Carolina Cooperative Extension. The plant grows 10 to 15 inches tall with a similar spread, so dig holes 8 to 18 inches apart, depending on the look you are trying to achieve.
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Keep your plants well watered, irrigating when the top inch of soil is dry. Leaves on water-stressed kale turns yellow and drops.
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Provide a liquid fertilizer with water to providing quick access to nutrients for establishment. Usage. Discontinue fertilization when the plant is developing its color. A fertilizer for acid-loving plants is also appropriate.
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Diseases and pests. Flowering Kale is rarely affected by pests. Aphids and cabbage loopers will cause minor damage. These conditions may be treated with organic or synthetic pesticides as needed.
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Keep flowering kale in place even after frost. Unlike most bedding annuals, flowering kale, native to Eurasia, stays attractive down to 15 F, according to North Carolina State University Extension. Apply mulch over the roots for some protection and ensure pots drain well. Waterlogged plants or kale in waterlogged planters that freeze will die.
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Tips & Warnings
Flowering kale is a member of the mustard family.
Flowering kale is edible, but has a bitter flavor.
References
- Photo Credit Brand X Pictures/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images
