Ornamental Kale Flower Seeds ( Hybrid)

Ornamental kale, also known as flowering kale or ornamental cabbage, is a cool-season annual plant that is grown for its colorful and attractive leaves. While it is technically edible, it is primarily used as an ornamental plant in landscaping and garden design. Here’s a guide on how to grow ornamental kale:

1. Planting Time: Ornamental kale is a cool-season plant, and it is best grown in the fall or early spring. It thrives in cooler temperatures, and in some regions, it can withstand mild winter conditions.

2. Soil: Provide well-draining, fertile soil for ornamental kale. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil. Incorporating organic matter into the soil before planting can enhance fertility and drainage.

3. Sunlight: Ornamental kale prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. In cooler climates, it may benefit from some protection from the afternoon sun.

4. Planting:

• Seeds: Ornamental kale can be grown from seeds, but it is more commonly planted as young plants purchased from nurseries or garden centers.
• Transplants: Plant young ornamental kale plants in the garden after the last frost in spring or in late summer for a fall display.

5. Spacing: Space ornamental kale plants according to the specific variety’s recommendations, usually around 12 to 18 inches apart. This allows enough room for the plants to spread and form attractive rosettes.

6. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist. Ornamental kale prefers well-watered conditions but avoid waterlogging. Mulching around the plants helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.

7. Fertilizing: Fertilize ornamental kale with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer at planting time. If the plants are grown in containers, you may need to provide additional fertilizer during the growing season.

8. Maintenance: Remove any yellowing or damaged leaves regularly to maintain a neat appearance. Deadheading is not necessary for ornamental kale.

9. Cold Tolerance: Ornamental kale is more cold-tolerant than many other plants in the cabbage family. In fact, exposure to cooler temperatures can enhance the coloration of its leaves.

10. Pest and Disease Management: Keep an eye out for common pests like aphids or cabbage worms. These can usually be controlled with insecticidal soap or other appropriate treatments. Ornamental kale is generally less susceptible to diseases.

11. Varieties: There are various ornamental kale varieties, each with its own unique leaf color and pattern. Choose varieties based on your aesthetic preferences and the overall design of your garden.

Ornamental kale is often used in garden beds, borders, and containers to provide vibrant foliage and texture. It’s a versatile plant that adds visual interest, especially during the cooler seasons. Always refer to specific care recommendations for the ornamental kale variety you are growing, as there can be variations in requirements.