Free Flowering Kale Plants

Flowering kale is a hardy and versatile plant that is prized for its colorful foliage and tolerance to cold temperatures. Here's everything you need to know about growing and caring for flowering kale.

What is flowering kale?

Flowering kale, also known as ornamental kale, is a variety of kale that is grown for its colorful and decorative foliage. Unlike the edible varieties of kale, flowering kale is not typically consumed and is instead used as a decorative plant in gardens and landscapes.

Flowering kale produces large, frilly leaves that come in a range of colors, including white, pink, purple, and red. In addition to its colorful foliage, flowering kale also produces tall, sturdy stems that make it a popular choice for cut flower arrangements.

How to grow flowering kale?

Flowering kale is a hardy and easy-to-grow plant that is well-suited for cooler climates. Here are the steps you need to follow to grow flowering kale:

Choose a location: Flowering kale prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Choose a spot in your garden that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day.

Prepare the soil: Flowering kale prefers soil that is slightly acidic to neutral and rich in organic matter. Add compost or well-rotted manure to the soil before planting to improve soil fertility and drainage.

Plant the seedlings: Purchase flowering kale seedlings from a local nursery or garden center, or start your own from seed indoors 4 to 6 weeks before the last expected frost. Space the seedlings about 12 inches apart and cover the roots with a thin layer of soil.

Water regularly: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plants regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.

Fertilize: Feed the plants with a balanced fertilizer once a month to promote healthy growth and foliage color.

How to care for flowering kale?

Flowering kale requires regular care to keep it looking its best. Here are some tips to help you care for your flowering kale:

Water regularly: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plants regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.

Watch out for pests: Flowering kale is susceptible to aphids, cabbage worms, and flea beetles. Check your plants regularly and treat any infestations promptly.

Remove damaged leaves: As flowering kale grows, the lower leaves may become damaged or discolored. Remove these leaves to improve the appearance of the plant and promote healthy growth.

Use as a cut flower: Flowering kale makes a great cut flower, with its tall, sturdy stems and colorful foliage. Cut the stems when the top leaves have fully opened and place them in a vase of water for a long-lasting arrangement.

With its colorful foliage and tolerance to cold temperatures, flowering kale is a versatile and attractive addition to any garden. Follow these tips to grow and care for your flowering kale, and you'll be rewarded with a colorful display that will brighten up your garden throughout the fall and winter months.