What to know
- This stunning variety of kale, also known as ornamental kale, offers a feast for the eyes with its ruffled, frilly leaves in shades of purple, green, pink, white, and even red.
- Decorative kale is a beautiful addition to any fall garden, adding a touch of whimsy and color to your landscape.
- The best time to plant decorative kale is in the spring or early summer.
If you’re looking for a way to add vibrant color and texture to your fall garden, look no further than decorative kale. This stunning variety of kale, also known as ornamental kale, offers a feast for the eyes with its ruffled, frilly leaves in shades of purple, green, pink, white, and even red. Learning how to grow decorative kale is surprisingly easy, and the results are truly breathtaking.
Choosing the Right Variety
The first step in growing decorative kale is choosing the right variety. There are many different types available, each with its own unique color and leaf shape. Here are a few popular options:
- Redbor: This variety features deep red leaves with a ruffled edge.
- Winterbor: This kale boasts beautiful, frilly leaves in shades of purple, pink, and white.
- Peacock: As the name suggests, this variety features leaves with intricate patterns that resemble a peacock’s feathers.
- Nero: This kale boasts dark, almost black leaves with a slightly glossy finish.
When selecting your decorative kale varieties, consider the overall color scheme of your garden and choose varieties that will complement your existing plants.
Sowing the Seeds
You can start decorative kale from seed indoors or outdoors. For indoor sowing, start your seeds 6-8 weeks before the last frost date in your area.
- Indoor Sowing: Fill seed trays with a seed-starting mix and sow the seeds about 1/4 inch deep. Keep the soil moist and warm, and provide indirect sunlight. Once the seedlings have a few true leaves, transplant them into individual pots.
- Outdoor Sowing: You can also sow decorative kale directly outdoors after the last frost. Space the seeds about 12 inches apart.
Planting Your Kale
Once your seedlings have grown to a reasonable size, it’s time to plant them in your garden.
- Location: Choose a sunny spot in your garden. Decorative kale prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Soil: Ensure your soil is well-drained and rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or manure before planting.
- Spacing: Space your kale plants 12-18 inches apart.
Watering and Feeding
Decorative kale needs consistent moisture, especially during dry periods. Water your plants deeply once or twice a week, making sure the soil is evenly moist. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
To encourage healthy growth and vibrant colors, fertilize your kale plants every few weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Protecting Your Kale
Decorative kale is generally pest-resistant, but it can be susceptible to aphids and cabbage worms. Keep an eye out for these pests and use organic pest control methods if necessary.
You can also protect your kale from cold temperatures by covering it with a row cover during the winter months. This will help to prevent frost damage and keep your plants looking their best.
Harvesting and Enjoying
While decorative kale is primarily grown for its ornamental value, you can also harvest its leaves for culinary purposes. The leaves have a mild flavor and can be used in salads, soups, or stir-fries.
The Grand Finale: Your Kaleidoscope Garden
Decorative kale is a beautiful addition to any fall garden, adding a touch of whimsy and color to your landscape. With its easy care requirements and stunning beauty, this plant is sure to become a favorite in your garden.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: How long does it take for decorative kale to grow?
A: Decorative kale typically takes 6-8 weeks to mature from seed.
Q: Can I grow decorative kale in containers?
A: Yes, decorative kale can be grown successfully in containers. Choose a container that is at least 12 inches wide and deep.
Q: When is the best time to plant decorative kale?
A: The best time to plant decorative kale is in the spring or early summer. You can also plant it in the fall, but it may not have time to mature before the first frost.
Q: What can I do with decorative kale after it blooms?
A: While decorative kale doesn‘t typically bloom, you can cut back the foliage after it starts to look tired and overgrown. This will encourage new growth and keep your plants looking their best. You can also use the cut foliage in decorative arrangements.
Q: Can I save seeds from my decorative kale?
A: You can save seeds from your decorative kale, but keep in mind that the resulting plants may not be true to type. This means they may not have the same color or leaf shape as the parent plant.
