- 1). Plant ornamental cabbage and kale in bright sunlight and well-drained soil. Cabbage and kale like rich soil and benefit from 2 or 3 inches of compost or manure mixed into the soil. Allow 12 to 14 inches of space between plants. In a container with a drainage hole, plant cabbage and kale in a commercial planting mix.
- 2). Work a balanced granular fertilizer into the soil at planting time, then feed the plants every three weeks. Use a liquid or water-soluble fertilizer for plants located in containers. Refer to the container label for specific directions and application rates for your plants.
- 3). Water the plants regularly once every week if the autumn weather is warm and dry. Provide enough water to saturate the root system, then allow the soil to dry slightly before watering again. Ornamental cabbage and kale may rot in muddy soil ,but don't allow the soil to become bone dry. Check potted plants daily, especially during hot, dry autumn weather. Potted plants require water more frequently than in-ground plants.
- 4). Remove the lower leaves as the flowering kale and cabbage begin to fade, as pests such as cabbage looper and cabbage worms enjoy the wilted foliage. An insecticidal soap spray applied every seven to 10 days often keeps unwanted pests, including aphids, in check.
- Advertisement -
- Advertisement -