Ornamental Kale Care: A Complete Guide to Growing This Colorful Winter Beauty

When we think of kale, vegetables usually come to mind. But ornamental kale is a completely different story. Grown not for eating but for its stunning foliage, ornamental kale has become a popular choice for winter gardens, balconies, landscapes, and decorative pots. With its ruffled leaves and eye-catching shades of purple, pink, white, and green, it adds color exactly when most plants fade.

In this detailed guide on ornamental kale care, you’ll learn everything you need to know—from planting and sunlight needs to watering, maintenance, and common mistakes—so your plants stay vibrant and healthy throughout the season.

What Is Ornamental Kale?

Ornamental kale (Brassica oleracea) is a cool-season plant grown mainly for its decorative leaves rather than consumption. Unlike edible kale, ornamental kale has tougher leaves and a bitter taste, making it unsuitable for eating.

What makes ornamental kale special is how its colors intensify as temperatures drop. Cool weather triggers the vibrant hues in the center of the plant, making it one of the most attractive winter plants.

Understanding its nature is the first step toward proper ornamental kale care.

Why Choose Ornamental Kale?

Ornamental kale is loved by gardeners and landscapers for many reasons:

• Adds bright color in winter months
• Thrives in cool temperatures
• Easy to grow and maintain
• Looks great in pots, borders, and flower beds
• Perfect for festive and seasonal décor

With the right ornamental kale care, these plants can remain attractive for several months.

Light Requirements for Ornamental Kale Care

Light plays an important role in maintaining the shape and color of ornamental kale.

• Ornamental kale prefers full sun to partial sun
• Ideally, provide 4–6 hours of sunlight daily
• Morning sun is best, especially in warmer regions

Too little light can cause leggy growth and dull foliage, while extreme heat can fade colors. Balanced sunlight is key to successful ornamental kale care.

Temperature & Climate Needs

Ornamental kale is a cool-season plant.

• Ideal temperature range: 10°C to 20°C
• Tolerates light frost
• Cooler nights help enhance leaf color

High temperatures can slow growth and reduce color intensity, so ornamental kale performs best during autumn and winter. Proper temperature management is essential for long-lasting ornamental kale care.

Watering: A Key Part of Ornamental Kale Care

Watering correctly keeps ornamental kale healthy and fresh-looking.

✔ Watering Tips:

• Water when the topsoil feels slightly dry
• Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy
• Avoid waterlogging, especially in pots

Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering may cause wilting and dry edges. Balanced watering is one of the most important aspects of ornamental kale care.

Best Soil for Ornamental Kale

Healthy soil supports vibrant foliage.

• Use well-draining, fertile soil
• Soil should be rich in organic matter
• Slightly acidic to neutral pH works best

You can improve soil quality by mixing compost or well-decomposed organic manure. Good soil structure makes ornamental kale care much easier and more effective.

Growing Ornamental Kale in Pots

Ornamental kale grows beautifully in containers, making it ideal for balconies, patios, and entrances.

Pot Care Tips:

• Choose pots with proper drainage holes
• Use medium to large-sized containers
• Ensure good airflow around the plant

Container-grown plants may need slightly more frequent watering, but pot culture allows better control—an advantage in ornamental kale care.

Fertilizing Ornamental Kale

Ornamental kale is not a heavy feeder, but occasional feeding improves growth.

• Use a balanced liquid fertilizer every 3–4 weeks
• Avoid excess nitrogen, as it may reduce color intensity
• Organic compost works well for steady nourishment

Moderate feeding supports healthy foliage without compromising the plant’s decorative appeal.

Maintenance & Pruning

Ornamental kale requires minimal pruning.

• Remove yellow or damaged outer leaves
• Keep the base clean to prevent pests
• Avoid heavy trimming, as it may disturb growth

Simple maintenance goes a long way in ornamental kale care and helps the plant stay neat and attractive.

Common Problems & Solutions

Even hardy plants like ornamental kale can face issues if conditions aren’t right.

1. Fading Colors

Cause: Warm temperatures or low light
Solution: Move to a cooler, brighter location

2. Wilting Leaves

Cause: Irregular watering
Solution: Maintain consistent moisture

3. Pest Attacks

Common pests include aphids and caterpillars
Solution: Use neem oil or mild organic insecticides

4. Yellowing Leaves

Cause: Poor drainage or nutrient imbalance
Solution: Improve soil drainage and avoid overwatering

Recognizing these early helps maintain healthy ornamental kale care.

Ornamental Kale in Landscaping & Décor

Ornamental kale is widely used in:

• Winter garden beds
• Border planting
• Festive arrangements
• Balcony planters
• Entryway decorations

It pairs beautifully with pansies, violas, and ornamental grasses, making it a favorite among landscape designers.

Indoor vs Outdoor Ornamental Kale Care

Outdoor Care:

• Best for garden beds and large planters
• Natural sunlight enhances color
• Better air circulation

Indoor Care:

• Keep near bright windows
• Avoid warm indoor temperatures
• Shorter lifespan indoors compared to outdoors

Ornamental kale thrives best outdoors during cooler months.

FAQs

1. Is ornamental kale edible?
No, ornamental kale is grown only for decoration and is not suitable for eating.

2. How long does ornamental kale last?
With proper ornamental kale care, it can last 2–4 months during the cool season.

3. Can ornamental kale survive frost?
Yes, it can tolerate light frost, which often enhances its color.

4. Why is my ornamental kale losing color?
High temperatures and insufficient sunlight are common reasons.