Ornamental Cabbage/Kale

Ornamental cabbages and kales are an ornamental plant, grown for its colorful leaves. In the Fall, when other flowers are dying off, Kale gives off a generous splash of color. The cool weather Flowering Kale plant, grows better in cool, and even cold weather.

LIGHTING REQUIREMENTS: USDA hardiness zones: 2 through 11

CARE INSTRUCTIONS WATER: Keep soil moist, not wet. Water as needed, especially during dry weather.

FERTILIZER: Fertilize plants once a month, with a fertilizer high in nitrogen. Liquid fertilizers work best for fast growth.

FLOWERING: Native to Europe, the plants grow a mounded rosette of deeply lobed, outer leaves in a range of green hues. The colorful center leaves include in pink, white, purple and reds.

SOIL: Grow in rich, well drained soil.

DISEASE: Cabbage Loopers are a common problem. Pick by hand. Cabbage worms and root maggots can also be a problem. If you are not going to eat the Kale, use insecticides, as needed.