Ornamental kale, a plant admired for its vibrant colors and striking foliage, is a popular choice for gardens and landscapes. As winter approaches, gardeners often wonder if their ornamental kale will survive the frost. In this article, we will delve into the world of ornamental kale, exploring its characteristics, growth habits, and most importantly, its ability to withstand frost.
Introduction to Ornamental Kale
Ornamental kale, also known as flowering kale, is a type of kale that is grown for its decorative value rather than its edible leaves. It is a cool-season crop, thriving in temperatures between 40°F and 70°F (4°C and 21°C). Ornamental kale is a member of the Brassica family, which includes other popular plants like broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage. With its beautiful, frilly leaves and stunning colors, ornamental kale adds a touch of elegance to any garden or landscape.
Characteristics of Ornamental Kale
Ornamental kale is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant grows to be around 2-3 feet tall and wide, making it a great addition to containers, borders, and beds. One of the most notable characteristics of ornamental kale is its ability to change colors with the temperature. As the weather cools, the leaves of the plant become more vibrant, displaying a range of colors from pink and purple to white and red.
Growth Habits of Ornamental Kale
Ornamental kale is a biennial plant, which means it completes its life cycle in two years. In the first year, the plant focuses its energy on growing leaves and roots. In the second year, the plant produces flowers and seeds. However, ornamental kale is often grown as an annual, as it is typically planted in the spring or fall and discarded after the first frost. This growth habit makes ornamental kale a great choice for gardeners who want to add some temporary color and interest to their landscape.
Frost Tolerance of Ornamental Kale
Now, let’s address the main question: will ornamental kale survive frost? The answer is a bit complicated. Ornamental kale is relatively frost-tolerant, but it is not frost-proof. The plant can withstand light frosts, but prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can cause damage or even death. The exact frost tolerance of ornamental kale depends on several factors, including the specific variety, temperature, and duration of the frost.
Factors Affecting Frost Tolerance
Several factors can affect the frost tolerance of ornamental kale. These include:
- Temperature: The temperature of the frost is a critical factor in determining the damage to ornamental kale. Light frosts, typically above 25°F (-4°C), may not cause significant damage, while temperatures below 20°F (-7°C) can be more harmful.
- Duration: The length of time the plant is exposed to frost also plays a role in determining the damage. Short-lived frosts may not cause significant harm, while prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can be devastating.
- Variety: Different varieties of ornamental kale have varying levels of frost tolerance. Some varieties, such as ‘Redbor’ and ‘Lacinato’, are more resistant to frost than others.
- Acclimation: Ornamental kale that has been acclimated to cool temperatures may be more resistant to frost than plants that have been grown in warmer conditions.
Protecting Ornamental Kale from Frost
If you want to protect your ornamental kale from frost, there are several steps you can take. These include:
Using row covers or other protective materials to cover the plants
Bringing potted plants indoors or moving them to a protected location
Watering the soil thoroughly before a frost to help insulate the roots
Adding a layer of mulch to the soil to retain heat and moisture
Caring for Ornamental Kale in the Winter
While ornamental kale is relatively frost-tolerant, it still requires some care during the winter months. Keep in mind that ornamental kale is a cool-season crop, and it will continue to thrive in temperatures above 40°F (4°C). To keep your ornamental kale healthy and vibrant during the winter, make sure to:
Water the plants regularly, but avoid overwatering
Fertilize the plants lightly, as they may not be actively growing
Prune the plants to maintain shape and promote new growth
Keep an eye out for pests and diseases, which can be more prevalent during the winter months
Overwintering Ornamental Kale
In some cases, ornamental kale can be overwintered, allowing it to survive the cold temperatures and thrive in the spring. To overwinter ornamental kale, make sure to:
Choose a variety that is known to be more cold-hardy
Plant the kale in a protected location, such as a cold frame or unheated greenhouse
Mulch the soil heavily to retain heat and moisture
Water the plants regularly, but avoid overwatering
By following these tips, you can help your ornamental kale survive the winter and thrive in the spring.
Conclusion
Ornamental kale is a beautiful and versatile plant that can add a touch of elegance to any garden or landscape. While it is relatively frost-tolerant, it is not frost-proof, and prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can cause damage or death. By understanding the factors that affect frost tolerance and taking steps to protect your ornamental kale, you can help it survive the winter and thrive in the spring. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, ornamental kale is a great choice for anyone looking to add some color and interest to their landscape.
What is ornamental kale and how does it differ from regular kale?
Ornamental kale, also known as flowering kale, is a type of kale that is grown for its decorative value rather than its edible leaves. It is a cool-season crop that thrives in the cooler temperatures of spring and fall, and is often used as a ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes. Ornamental kale is different from regular kale in that it has a more vibrant color and a more delicate texture, making it a popular choice for adding a pop of color to gardens and floral arrangements.
In terms of its hardiness, ornamental kale is generally more sensitive to frost than regular kale, which can tolerate light frosts with minimal damage. However, some varieties of ornamental kale are bred to be more cold-tolerant than others, and can survive light frosts with minimal damage. It’s worth noting that even if ornamental kale is damaged by frost, it can often recover quickly, making it a relatively low-maintenance option for gardeners. By choosing a variety that is bred for its cold hardiness, gardeners can enjoy the beauty of ornamental kale even in cooler climates.
Will ornamental kale survive a light frost?
Ornamental kale can survive a light frost, but the extent of the damage will depend on the severity of the frost and the specific variety of kale. In general, ornamental kale can tolerate a light frost of around 25-30°F (-4 to -1°C) with minimal damage. However, if the frost is more severe, or if it persists for an extended period, the kale may suffer more significant damage, including discoloration, wilting, and even death. If you live in an area where light frosts are common, it’s a good idea to choose a variety of ornamental kale that is bred for its cold hardiness.
To minimize damage from light frosts, gardeners can take a few precautions, such as covering the plants with a frost blanket or bringing them under cover if possible. It’s also a good idea to water the plants well before a frost, as dry soil can make them more vulnerable to damage. After a frost, it’s a good idea to inspect the plants for damage and remove any affected leaves or stems. By taking these precautions, gardeners can help their ornamental kale survive a light frost and continue to thrive.
How can I protect my ornamental kale from frost damage?
There are several ways to protect ornamental kale from frost damage, including covering the plants with a frost blanket or bringing them under cover if possible. Frost blankets are lightweight, breathable fabrics that allow plants to breathe while keeping frost off. They can be draped over the plants or supported with stakes to keep them from touching the leaves. Another option is to bring the plants under cover, such as a cold frame or a greenhouse, where they can be protected from the cold.
In addition to covering the plants, gardeners can also take other precautions to protect their ornamental kale from frost damage. This includes watering the plants well before a frost, as dry soil can make them more vulnerable to damage. It’s also a good idea to choose a variety of ornamental kale that is bred for its cold hardiness, and to plant it in a location that provides some protection from wind and frost. By taking these precautions, gardeners can help their ornamental kale survive a frost and continue to thrive.
What are the different types of ornamental kale and their frost tolerance?
There are several different types of ornamental kale, each with its own level of frost tolerance. Some popular varieties include ‘Redbor’, ‘Whitebor’, and ‘Nagoya’, which are known for their vibrant colors and relatively high level of cold hardiness. Other varieties, such as ‘Lacinato’ and ‘Rainbow’, are more sensitive to frost and may require more protection. In general, the more delicate and lacy the leaves of the kale, the more sensitive it will be to frost.
When choosing a variety of ornamental kale, gardeners should consider the specific climate and frost patterns in their area. If they live in an area with frequent or severe frosts, they may want to choose a variety that is bred for its cold hardiness, such as ‘Redbor’ or ‘Whitebor’. On the other hand, if they live in an area with mild winters, they may be able to get away with a more sensitive variety, such as ‘Lacinato’ or ‘Rainbow’. By choosing the right variety for their climate, gardeners can help ensure that their ornamental kale thrives and survives the winter months.
Can I grow ornamental kale in containers and protect it from frost?
Yes, ornamental kale can be grown in containers and protected from frost. In fact, growing in containers can provide an added layer of protection, as the soil and roots of the plant are insulated by the container. To protect container-grown ornamental kale from frost, gardeners can bring the containers under cover, such as a cold frame or a greenhouse, or move them to a protected location, such as a garage or a sunroom.
When growing ornamental kale in containers, it’s a good idea to use a large enough container to provide adequate root space, and to use a well-draining potting mix to prevent waterlogged soil. Gardeners should also choose a variety of ornamental kale that is compact and bushy, such as ‘Redbor’ or ‘Whitebor’, which will do well in containers. By providing the right care and protection, gardeners can enjoy the beauty of ornamental kale in containers, even in cooler climates.
How long does ornamental kale typically last in the garden before it needs to be replaced?
Ornamental kale typically lasts in the garden for several months, depending on the specific variety and growing conditions. In general, it will thrive in the cooler temperatures of spring and fall, and may begin to decline in the heat of summer or the cold of winter. With proper care and protection, ornamental kale can last for 6-9 months in the garden, providing a beautiful display of color and texture.
To extend the life of ornamental kale, gardeners can take a few precautions, such as providing regular watering and fertilization, and protecting the plants from extreme temperatures and weather conditions. They can also trim back the plants to encourage new growth and prevent them from becoming leggy. By taking these precautions, gardeners can enjoy the beauty of ornamental kale for a longer period, and may be able to get multiple seasons of growth from a single planting.
Can I use ornamental kale as a cut flower and how do I care for it?
Yes, ornamental kale can be used as a cut flower, and it makes a beautiful and unique addition to floral arrangements. To use ornamental kale as a cut flower, gardeners should harvest the stems when the leaves are at their most vibrant and colorful. They should then trim the stems at an angle, and place them in a vase of fresh water. To extend the life of the cut kale, gardeners can add floral preservatives to the water, and keep the arrangement away from direct sunlight and heat.
When using ornamental kale as a cut flower, it’s a good idea to combine it with other flowers and foliage to add texture and interest to the arrangement. Some popular combinations include pairing the kale with roses, carnations, and baby’s breath, or using it as a focal point in a monochromatic arrangement. By following these tips, gardeners can enjoy the beauty of ornamental kale in a new and creative way, and add a unique touch to their floral arrangements.