Brassica oleracea (Korean Cabbage Flower)

Botanical Name: Brassica oleracea

Common Name: Ornamental cabbage, ornamental kale

Plant Type: Annual or biennial

Mature Size: 12–18 inches tall and wide

Sun Exposure: Full sun

Soil Type: Rich loam, medium moisture, well-draining

Soil pH: 5.5 to 6.5 (slightly acidic)

Bloom Time: Rarely, flowers

Flower Color: Insignificant

Hardiness Zones: 2–11

Native Area: Southern and Western Europe

Toxicity: Non-toxic

These are cool-season plants often planted in the fall or early spring before being removed when the weather becomes freezing or the hotter summer months. These fast-growing plants can be grown from seeds for spring or summer growth, although they are most commonly planted from potted nursery starts.

Light

The plants love to grow in direct sunlight. When cultivated in warmer areas, however, some afternoon shade is excellent.

Water

Water the plants frequently; they want soil that is continuously wet but not waterlogged. It’s time to water if the top inch of soil is dry. If you live in an area where it rains frequently, you may not need water at all. However, if there is a dry spell, be prepared to provide more water.

Temperature and Humidity

Unless they get a significant cold from a frost, ornamental cabbage and kale don’t develop their full hues. They can persist all winter, although their presence is very dependent on the weather. They will flee if it is hot and there is a lot of daylight (send up a flower stalk and seed). And if it’s really damp with strong winds, the plants will wilt rapidly. They may live as long as the temperature is above 5 degrees Fahrenheit. A sudden drop in temperature, on the other hand, might harm or kill plants. 

Humidity isn’t usually a concern for these plants. However, if the weather is moist and the plants do not have adequate air circulation, they may acquire fungal infections that manifest as patches on the leaves.

Fertilizer

Use a balanced fertilizer to fertilize ornamental cabbage only at planting time. If you fertilize them while they’re developing, they’ll lose colour and become leggy.