By Jeff Floyd
Certified horticulturist and arborist
Ornamental kale is one of the most striking plants found in the fall garden. It is often planted in long sweeping rows as an edging or in small groupings as an accent. However, it works equally well taking center stage when planted tightly together in patterns.
As other plants begin to wilt under harsh winter temperatures, kale thrives by accumulating glucose within its cells. These concentrated sugars protect the plant from freezing and cause its colors to become more intense. Rather than impressing onlookers with showy flowers like pansies or snapdragons, kale grabs attention with its stunning shades of green, pink and violet petticoat-like foliage.
Kale is a Mediterranean species directly related to brussel sprouts, cabbage, broccoli and many others in the mustard family. Like all species in the mustard family, warm temperatures in early to mid-spring cause it to produce a leggy flower stalk. This event, commonly referred to as “bolting,” occurs just before the plant plays out for the season. Kale is usually removed from the garden at this time unless gardeners choose to leave them for pollinators to enjoy.
All varieties of kale are edible but not all are considered tasty. Unlike culinary types, ornamental kales are grown for their color rather than their flavor. In fact, most ornamental kale is rather bitter. Nevertheless, its brilliant hues allow it to be used as a spectacular garnish.
Ornamental kale grows about six to eight inches in height and around fifteen inches wide. It prefers a moist but well drained soil and full sunlight. After its roots have become established only occasional supplemental water is necessary during an average winter.
It is sometimes attacked by aphids, flea beetles, cabbage moths and other mustard family pests but rarely requires pesticides. As the plant matures and its foliage becomes thicker, it tends to have fewer pest problems. Although deer may occasionally graze it to the ground in some locations, it will usually recover in time to put on some early spring color.
Since kale is so easy to grow, why not pick up some today to dress up your garden this year. It will add weeks of colorful beauty to what may otherwise be a drab winter landscape.
