Why You'll Love It
Flowering Kale isn't your average leafy green; it's a vibrant explosion of color and texture that brings a unique ornamental flair to gardens and containers. Its ruffled leaves, ranging from creamy whites and soft pinks to deep purples and vibrant magentas, create a stunning visual display, especially during cooler months when other flowers fade.
Plant lovers adore Flowering Kale for its resilience and ability to thrive in cold weather, providing much-needed color when other plants are dormant. It's a low-maintenance option that adds a touch of elegance and drama to any space. The plant's beauty lies in its transformation as temperatures drop, intensifying its colors and creating a breathtaking spectacle.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Flowering Kale is also edible, though it tends to be more bitter than its vegetable counterpart. It's a versatile plant that can be used in borders, mass plantings, containers, and even as a cut flower, making it a favorite among gardeners and floral designers alike. Its hardiness and striking appearance make it a true standout in the plant world.
The Story
Flowering Kale, also known as ornamental kale, is a cultivar of Brassica oleracea, the same species that gives us edible kale, cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower. While its exact origins are debated, it's believed to have been developed in Europe and Asia, where various forms of Brassica oleracea have been cultivated for centuries.
Unlike its vegetable cousins, Flowering Kale was specifically bred for its ornamental value rather than its flavor. Its vibrant colors and frilly leaves were selected to create a visually stunning plant that could withstand cold temperatures. It became increasingly popular in the 20th century as gardeners sought ways to add color to their landscapes during the fall and winter months.
In some cultures, Flowering Kale is associated with resilience and beauty in the face of adversity, reflecting its ability to thrive in harsh conditions. It's often used in landscaping to symbolize strength and endurance. Today, Flowering Kale is a widely cultivated ornamental plant, prized for its unique beauty and ability to brighten up gardens and containers during the colder seasons.
Complete Care Guide
Flowering Kale thrives with consistent care. Plant in well-draining soil, preferably a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0). Provide at least 6 hours of sunlight daily, more is better, especially in fall and winter. Water regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize every 2-3 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer, especially during active growth and bloom.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming and prevent seed production. Monitor for pests like aphids and cabbage worms, and treat accordingly with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Provide good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases. In warmer climates, Flowering Kale may be grown as a winter annual, while in cooler climates, it can tolerate light frosts.
Ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot. Mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Protect from extreme cold snaps with row covers or by moving containers indoors. Regular pruning can help maintain the plant's shape and promote bushier growth. Flowering Kale prefers cooler temperatures, so avoid placing it in overly warm or stuffy environments.
Light Requirements
Flowering Kale requires ample sunlight to develop its vibrant colors. Aim for at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day, especially during the fall and winter months when sunlight is less intense. Insufficient light will result in faded colors and leggy growth.
When grown indoors, place Flowering Kale near a south-facing window where it can receive the most sunlight. If natural light is limited, supplement with grow lights to ensure adequate illumination. Rotate the plant regularly to ensure even exposure to light and prevent it from leaning towards the light source.
In outdoor settings, choose a location that receives full sun for most of the day. Avoid planting in shaded areas or under trees, as this will hinder the development of the plant's colors. The more sunlight Flowering Kale receives, the more intense and vibrant its colors will become.
Seasonal Care
Spring
As temperatures warm, gradually acclimate Flowering Kale to outdoor conditions. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer to promote new growth. Monitor for pests and diseases. Deadhead any spent flowers.
Summer
Flowering Kale may bolt (produce flowers) in hot summer weather. Provide afternoon shade to prevent bolting. Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist. Monitor for pests and diseases.
Fall
Fall is the ideal time to plant Flowering Kale. Provide ample sunlight to encourage vibrant color development. Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Protect from early frosts if necessary.
Winter
Flowering Kale can tolerate light frosts and snow. Protect from extreme cold snaps with row covers or by moving containers indoors. Water sparingly during periods of dormancy.
The Life of Your Kale
Seedling / Juvenile
Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost. Use a seed-starting mix and keep the soil consistently moist. Provide ample light for strong seedling development. Harden off seedlings gradually before transplanting outdoors.
Adolescent
As the plant grows, provide adequate spacing to allow for air circulation. Fertilize regularly with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and vibrant colors. Monitor for pests and diseases, and treat accordingly.
Mature
During the active blooming period, deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming. Ensure consistent watering and fertilization to support the plant's energy needs. Protect from extreme weather conditions like heavy frost or snow.
Established
After blooming, you can allow the plant to go to seed or remove it. In milder climates, Flowering Kale may survive through the winter and produce new growth in the spring. Adjust watering and fertilization as needed.
Propagation Guide
Flowering Kale is primarily grown from seed, but propagation through stem cuttings is possible, though less common. Division is not typically practiced with Flowering Kale.
To propagate from stem cuttings, take a healthy stem cutting about 4-6 inches long. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix and keep it consistently moist. Place the cutting in a warm, bright location, but avoid direct sunlight.
Keikis are not applicable to Flowering Kale as this method is specific to certain plant families.
Within a few weeks, the cutting should develop roots. Once the roots are established, transplant the cutting into a larger pot or directly into the garden. Water regularly and fertilize as needed. Remember that propagation from cuttings may not produce plants with the same vibrant colors as the parent plant, as color development is influenced by environmental factors.
Expert Knowledge
Flowering Kale's vibrant colors are due to pigments called anthocyanins, which are produced in response to cold temperatures. The plant's color intensity is also influenced by sunlight and nutrient availability. To maximize color, provide ample sunlight, cooler temperatures, and consistent fertilization.
Flowering Kale is a biennial, meaning it completes its life cycle in two years. In the first year, it produces leaves, and in the second year, it flowers and sets seed. After flowering, the plant typically declines. To prevent bolting in hot weather, choose heat-tolerant varieties and provide afternoon shade. Flowering Kale is a great choice for adding color to your garden during the fall and winter months.
Troubleshooting
Yellow leaves
Yellow leaves can indicate overwatering, underwatering, nutrient deficiency, or pest infestation. Check soil moisture and adjust watering accordingly. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer. Inspect for pests and treat as needed.
Brown leaf edges
Brown edges can be caused by dry air, inconsistent watering, or fertilizer burn. Increase humidity, ensure consistent watering, and avoid over-fertilizing. Flush the soil with water to remove excess salts.
Drooping leaves
Drooping can be a sign of underwatering, root rot, or transplant shock. Check soil moisture and water if dry. If root rot is suspected, improve drainage and treat with a fungicide. Ensure proper acclimation after transplanting.
Root rot
Root rot is caused by overwatering and poor drainage. Improve drainage by amending the soil with perlite or sand. Water less frequently and allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Treat with a fungicide if necessary.
Pests
Aphids, cabbage worms, and slugs are common pests. Treat with insecticidal soap, neem oil, or handpick pests off the plant. Encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs to control pest populations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the ideal light conditions?
Flowering Kale prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal color development.
How often should I water?
Water regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
When should I repot?
Repot Flowering Kale if it becomes root-bound or if the soil is depleted. Use a well-draining potting mix and choose a pot that is slightly larger than the previous one.
Is it toxic to pets?
Flowering Kale is generally considered non-toxic to pets and children, but ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
How big will it grow?
Flowering Kale typically grows to a height of 12-18 inches and a width of 12-18 inches indoors.
Can I propagate at home?
Flowering Kale can be propagated from seed or stem cuttings, though seed propagation is more common.
