Red Ornamental Cabbage – 10 Seeds

What are ornamental cabbage and kale? Ornamental cabbage and kale (also known as “flowering” cabbage and kale) are in the same species (Brassica oleracea) as edible cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower. While ornamental cabbage and kale are edible, they tend to have a bitter flavor and are often used in a culinary setting as garnishes. Ornamental cabbage and kale are prized primarily as colorful additions to home gardens where they are grown for their large rosettes of white, pink, purple or red leaves. Technically, ornamental cabbage and kale are all kales (kales produce leaves in a tight rosettes; cabbages produce heads). But in the horticultural trade, ornamental kale is the term used for types with deeply-cut, curly, frilly or ruffled leaves. Ornamental cabbage is the term used for types with broad, flat leaves that are edged in a contrasting color. Ornamental cabbage and kale grow approximately one foot wide and 15 inches tall. •Hybrid (F1) •Non-GMO •American grown seeds •90-110 Days •USDA Zones: 2-11 Growing Instructions: Transplant (recommended): Sow directly in cell packs 4-6 weeks before planting outside. Cover seed with 1/4" of soil. After germination, grow seedlings at 60°F for 3-4 weeks. Harden off one week before planting outside. Plants must be set out several weeks before the first fall frost. Direct seed: Sow 3 months before expected fall frost, 2 seeds per hole, 6" apart and 1/4" deep. Thin to one plant per hole. Full sun. Moist, well-drained soil. Discontinue fertilizer once plants begin to color. Plants spaced more than 6" will produce heads that are too large for cut flower use. Kale should have a 6" head on a 24" stem with good coloring. Plants will begin to color once temps. drop below 50°F. Once plants are about 10-12" tall, remove the lower leaves. Repeat 3 or 4 times as the plants grow taller. Use Hortonova (horizontal trellis) to prevent the plants from falling over, as they become top heavy.