How to Plant Ornamental Kale: A Beautiful Addition to Your Garden
Ornamental kale is a beautiful and colorful plant that can add a stunning touch of beauty to any garden. Whether you are an experienced gardener or just starting out, planting ornamental kale is easy and fun. In this article, we will guide you on how to plant ornamental kale and keep it healthy.
1. Choose the Right Location
The first step in planting ornamental kale is to choose the right location. Kale plants need plenty of sunlight, so find a spot in your garden that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. The soil should also be well-drained and fertile, with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
It's important to note that ornamental kale is a cool-season crop, which means it grows best in cooler temperatures. Therefore, it's recommended to plant them in the fall or early spring.
2. Prepare the Soil
Before planting your ornamental kale, prepare the soil by removing any weeds and debris. Loosen the soil to a depth of at least 12 inches using a garden fork or tiller. Add organic matter like compost or aged manure to improve soil fertility and drainage.
You may also want to consider adding a slow-release fertilizer to the soil before planting. This will ensure that your kale plants have enough nutrients to grow healthy and strong.
3. Planting the Ornamental Kale
When planting your kale seedlings, make sure to space them at least 12-18 inches apart. This will give them enough room to grow and spread out. Dig holes in the soil for each seedling, making sure they are about the same depth as their containers.
Gently remove the seedlings from their containers and place them in the holes. Cover the roots with soil and water them thoroughly. Make sure to water the plants deeply, at least once a week, especially during dry spells.
4. Maintaining Your Ornamental Kale Plants
To keep your ornamental kale plants healthy and thriving, there are a few things you need to do. First, make sure to water them regularly, especially during dry periods. Second, mulch around the plants to help retain moisture in the soil and suppress weeds.
If you notice any pests or diseases on your plants, remove them immediately to prevent further damage. You can also use organic pest control methods like neem oil or insecticidal soap to keep pests at bay.
5. Harvesting Your Ornamental Kale
Ornamental kale is not usually grown for consumption, but rather for its beautiful foliage. However, if you do want to eat it, you can harvest the leaves when they are young and tender. Simply cut the leaves at the base of the stem and wash them thoroughly before cooking.
As your ornamental kale plants grow, they may become tall and leggy. To promote bushier growth, pinch back the tips of the branches periodically. This will encourage the plant to produce more lateral shoots, resulting in a fuller and more attractive plant.
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