Ornamental kale has become a staple in many gardens and landscapes, prized for its vibrant colors, unique textures, and ability to thrive in cooler temperatures. However, one question that often arises among gardeners and landscaping enthusiasts is whether ornamental kale comes back every year. In this article, we will delve into the world of ornamental kale, exploring its characteristics, growth habits, and what you can expect from this stunning plant.
Understanding Ornamental Kale
Ornamental kale, also known as flowering kale, is a type of kale that is grown for its decorative value rather than its edible leaves. It belongs to the Brassica family, which also includes cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower. Ornamental kale is known for its striking colors, which can range from deep purples and pinks to whites and creams. Its frilly, curly, or flat leaves add texture and interest to any garden or arrangement.
Growth Habits of Ornamental Kale
Ornamental kale is a cool-season crop, which means it prefers to grow in temperatures between 60°F and 70°F (15°C and 21°C). It is typically planted in early spring or late summer/early fall, about 8 to 10 weeks before the first frost. Ornamental kale is a fast-growing plant, reaching maturity in about 50 to 60 days. It can grow quite large, with some varieties reaching up to 3 feet (90 cm) in height.
Annual or Perennial: The Debate
The question of whether ornamental kale comes back every year is a common one, and the answer lies in its growth habits. Ornamental kale is technically a biennial plant, which means it completes its life cycle in two years. In the first year, it grows its leaves and stems, and in the second year, it produces flowers and seeds. However, in many climates, ornamental kale is treated as an annual, as it is sensitive to extreme temperatures and may not survive the winter.
Caring for Ornamental Kale
To keep your ornamental kale thriving, it’s essential to provide it with the right conditions. Here are a few tips:
Ornamental kale prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It requires full sun to partial shade and consistent moisture, especially when it’s producing new growth. Fertilize your ornamental kale regularly, using a balanced fertilizer that is high in nitrogen.
Overwintering Ornamental Kale
If you want to try to keep your ornamental kale alive over the winter, there are a few things you can do. In areas with mild winters, ornamental kale may survive the winter months and come back in the spring. However, in areas with harsh winters, it’s unlikely that the plant will survive. To overwinter ornamental kale, mulch heavily around the base of the plant to protect it from extreme temperatures and moisture loss. You can also try bringing potted ornamental kale indoors or moving it to a protected location, such as a cold frame or greenhouse.
Pest and Disease Management
Like any plant, ornamental kale is susceptible to pests and diseases. Keep an eye out for aphids, slugs, and snails, which can damage the leaves and stems. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of disease, such as yellowing leaves, black spots, or powdery mildew. Use organic or chemical controls as needed to prevent the spread of pests and diseases.
Propagating Ornamental Kale
If you want to keep your ornamental kale coming back year after year, you can try propagating it. There are a few ways to do this:
You can sow seeds directly in the ground in early spring or late summer, about 1/4 inch deep and 1-2 inches apart. Keep the soil consistently moist and warm until the seeds germinate. You can also start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date and then transplant them outside.
Another way to propagate ornamental kale is by dividing established plants. Dig up the entire plant, being careful not to damage the roots. Gently separate the roots and replant the divisions in well-draining soil. Water thoroughly and keep the soil consistently moist until the new plants are established.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while ornamental kale is technically a biennial plant, it is often treated as an annual in many climates. With proper care and protection, it may come back year after year, but it’s not guaranteed. By understanding the growth habits and needs of ornamental kale, you can enjoy its vibrant colors and unique textures in your garden or landscape. Whether you choose to propagate it or start fresh each year, ornamental kale is a stunning addition to any outdoor space.
To summarize the main points:
- Ornamental kale is a biennial plant that completes its life cycle in two years
- It prefers cool temperatures, well-draining soil, and consistent moisture
- With proper care and protection, ornamental kale may survive the winter months and come back in the spring
- Propagating ornamental kale through seed or division can help keep it coming back year after year
By following these tips and understanding the needs of ornamental kale, you can enjoy its beauty and benefits in your garden or landscape for years to come.
What is ornamental kale and how does it differ from regular kale?
Ornamental kale, also known as flowering kale, is a type of kale that is grown for its decorative value rather than its edible leaves. It is a cool-season annual or biennial plant that is characterized by its vibrant, colorful leaves and flower-like buds. While regular kale is grown for its nutritious and tasty leaves, ornamental kale is prized for its attractive appearance and is often used in landscaping and floral arrangements. Ornamental kale is usually planted in the fall or early spring, and it can thrive in a variety of conditions, including full sun and partial shade.
In terms of its growth habits, ornamental kale can grow up to 2-3 feet tall and wide, making it a statement piece in any garden or container. Its leaves can range in color from deep purples and pinks to whites and greens, and they often have a frilly or curly texture. While ornamental kale is not typically eaten, it is still a member of the Brassica family, which includes other edible plants like broccoli and cauliflower. With proper care and maintenance, ornamental kale can provide months of beautiful color and interest in the garden, making it a popular choice among gardeners and landscapers.
Is ornamental kale a perennial plant that comes back every year?
Ornamental kale is typically considered an annual or biennial plant, which means that it usually completes its life cycle within one or two years. In most cases, ornamental kale will not come back every year, as it is sensitive to extreme temperatures and weather conditions. While it can tolerate light frosts, ornamental kale is often damaged or killed by prolonged periods of cold weather, which can cause it to become leggy and lose its vibrant color. In warmer climates, ornamental kale may behave like a perennial, but in cooler climates, it is best treated as an annual.
To keep ornamental kale looking its best, gardeners often choose to plant new specimens every year, rather than relying on the same plants to come back. This allows them to take advantage of new and exciting varieties, as well as to avoid any potential disease or pest problems that can arise when the same plants are kept in the same location for too long. By planting new ornamental kale every year, gardeners can enjoy a fresh and vibrant display of color, and can experiment with different plant combinations and arrangements to keep their gardens looking interesting and dynamic.
Can I grow ornamental kale in containers and still expect it to come back every year?
Growing ornamental kale in containers can be a great way to add some color and interest to a patio or deck, but it is still unlikely to come back every year. Container-grown ornamental kale is often more susceptible to extreme temperatures and weather conditions, as the soil can heat up or cool down more quickly than in-ground soil. While it is possible to overwinter container-grown ornamental kale in a protected location, such as a cold frame or greenhouse, it is often easier to simply plant new specimens every year.
To keep container-grown ornamental kale looking its best, gardeners should choose a well-draining potting mix and a container that is at least 6-8 inches deep. They should also fertilize regularly, using a balanced fertilizer that is high in phosphorus to promote root growth and flowering. By providing the right conditions and care, gardeners can enjoy a beautiful display of ornamental kale in containers, even if it does not come back every year. With a little creativity and experimentation, container-grown ornamental kale can be used to add some extra color and interest to a garden or patio.
What are some tips for overwintering ornamental kale in colder climates?
Overwintering ornamental kale in colder climates can be challenging, but there are a few tips that can help. One of the most important things is to choose a variety of ornamental kale that is specifically bred for cold hardiness, as these plants will be more likely to survive the winter. Gardeners should also mulch around the base of the plants to protect the roots from extreme cold, and can use a frost blanket or other covering to protect the leaves from wind and frost damage.
Another tip for overwintering ornamental kale is to plant it in a protected location, such as against a south-facing wall or in a cold frame. This can provide some extra protection from wind and cold, and can help to keep the soil from freezing. Gardeners can also try digging up the ornamental kale and storing it in a cool, dark location, such as a basement or garage, to keep it safe until spring. By following these tips, gardeners in colder climates may be able to overwinter their ornamental kale and enjoy it again in the spring, although it is still unlikely to come back every year.
Can I propagate ornamental kale to create new plants for next year?
Yes, ornamental kale can be propagated to create new plants for next year. One of the easiest ways to propagate ornamental kale is by seed, which can be sown indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. Gardeners can also try dividing established plants in the spring, or taking cuttings from the stems in the fall. By propagating ornamental kale, gardeners can create new plants that are identical to the parent plant, and can enjoy a fresh and vigorous display of color in the garden.
To propagate ornamental kale by seed, gardeners should sow the seeds on the surface of a seed starting mix, and keep the soil moist and warm until germination. They can then transplant the seedlings into individual pots or cells, and grow them on until they are large enough to be planted outside. By propagating ornamental kale, gardeners can save money and have more control over the varieties they grow, as well as enjoy the satisfaction of growing their own plants from seed. With a little practice and patience, gardeners can successfully propagate ornamental kale and enjoy its beautiful colors and textures in their gardens.
Are there any varieties of ornamental kale that are more likely to come back every year?
While most varieties of ornamental kale are considered annuals or biennials, there are a few that are more likely to come back every year. These varieties are often referred to as “perennial” or “hardy” ornamental kale, and are bred specifically for their cold hardiness and ability to survive the winter. Some examples of perennial ornamental kale varieties include ‘Redbor’ and ‘Winterbor’, which are known for their vibrant colors and ability to tolerate extreme temperatures.
To take advantage of these perennial varieties, gardeners should plant them in a location that provides some protection from wind and extreme weather, such as against a wall or in a cold frame. They should also mulch around the base of the plants to protect the roots from cold, and can use a frost blanket or other covering to protect the leaves from wind and frost damage. By choosing a perennial variety of ornamental kale and providing the right conditions and care, gardeners may be able to enjoy a beautiful display of color for several years, rather than just one or two.
How can I incorporate ornamental kale into my garden design to create a beautiful and dynamic display?
Incorporating ornamental kale into a garden design can be a great way to add some color and interest, and can be done in a variety of ways. One idea is to use ornamental kale as a border plant, where it can add a pop of color and texture to the edge of a garden bed. Gardeners can also use ornamental kale in containers, where it can add some extra height and interest to a patio or deck. By combining ornamental kale with other plants, such as pansies or snapdragons, gardeners can create a beautiful and dynamic display that will attract attention and add some extra beauty to the garden.
To incorporate ornamental kale into a garden design, gardeners should consider the plant’s growth habits and color, as well as its texture and shape. They should also think about the overall theme or style of the garden, and choose varieties of ornamental kale that fit in with that theme. For example, a more formal garden might feature ornamental kale in a traditional color like red or white, while a more whimsical garden might feature brighter, more unusual colors like pink or purple. By incorporating ornamental kale into a garden design in a thoughtful and intentional way, gardeners can create a beautiful and dynamic display that will add some extra beauty and interest to the garden.