Ornamental cabbage and kale look and grow very much like their close relatives, the ediblecabbagesandkales.
They are slightly bitter, though are often used as a garnish.
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Officially, ornamental cabbage and kale are cool-season biennials.
The Spruce / Kara Riley
The most spectacular color is achieved if they experience cool, even cold conditions.
Light
These plants prefer to grow in full sun.
However, when grown in warmer climates, partial afternoon shade is ideal.
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Soil
An organically rich, loamy soil that drains well is ideal for these plants.
Both cabbage and kale prefer a slightly acidicsoil pHof about 5.5 to 6.5.
Water
Keep the plants well-watered; they like soil that’s consistently moist but not soggy.
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If the top inch of soil is dry, it’s time to water.
If your climate provides regular rain, you probably won’t have to water at all.
But be prepared to add supplemental water during a dry spell.
The Spruce / Kara Riley
They can last throughout the winter, but their appearance depends a lot on the weather.
And if it’s very wet with harsh storms, the plants will quickly become tattered.
They can survive as long as temperatures remain above 5 degrees Fahrenheit.
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However, a sharp drop in temperature can damage or kill plants.
Humidity typically isn’t an issue for these plants.
Fertilizer
Fertilize ornamental cabbage and kale only at planting time using a balancedfertilizer.
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Don’t fertilize while they’re growing, or they can lose color and get leggy.
Most seed packets are simply labeled “ornamental cabbage.”
So it’s best to focus on a color combination that appeals to you.
it’s possible for you to store the seeds in the freezer to preserve them for later planting.
Start the seeds indoors in small pots filled with a seed-starter mix.
Choose a container with ample drainage holes, and use an all-purpose potting mix.
A variety of pesticide dusts or horticultural oils designed for vegetables will also work on these pests.
These are more likely to appear in damp weather conditions.
Maintaining good air circulation can reduce the likelihood of these diseases.
Fungicides may help treat fungal diseases if applied early enough.
They also work well as edging plants, or in window boxes and other containers.
Visually, they blend well with chrysanthemums, asters, and ornamental grasses.
But they won’t achieve their full color unless they are exposed to some freezing temperatures.
Potential Production Challenges with Ornamental Cabbage and Kale.Department of Horticulture, Michigan State University Extension.
Brassicas, Fall Insects and Disease.Missouri Botanical Garden.
