The truth about cabbage and kale

Think outside of the ordinary
Known for their distinctive, low-to-the-ground texture and intensified fall color, flowering cabbage and kale have become one of the more popular fall plantings. Prized both for their longevity and ability to thrive in cold weather, these cultivars are perfect for garden, container, or hanging basket planting. Flowering cabbage and kale (the central leaves of the plant are considered the “flower”) are divided into two groups based on the shape of the leaf: the flowering cabbage feature smooth leaf margins, while flowering kale are known for their decorative fringed margins.

How to care for your flowering cabbage and kale:

• LIGHT: Prefer a sunny location.
• TEMPERATURE: Thrive in cooler conditions around the 40˚F mark. In the event of a frost, especially with newly planted cabbage and kale, cover to prevent damage. Color becomes more vivid as the temperatures drop.
• WATER: Keep moist, but be careful not to soak. A layer of shredded hardwood mulch is ideal for keeping out heat and sealing in moisture.
• FERTILIZER: When planting, mix Elements into the soil and water with root stimulator fertilizer.
• PLACEMENT: Terrific in containers and as an eye-catching garden or path border. Flowering cabbage and kale make an especially striking fall combo with pansies, mums, and ornamental grasses.