Ornamental cabbage is a fascinating plant not only for its nutritional properties, but also for its ornamental beauty. Scientifically known as brassica oleracea, this plant belongs to the cruciferous family and has been cultivated for centuries for both its culinary value and its aesthetic appeal. In this article, we will explore in depth the care and cultivation of ornamental cabbage, giving you all the necessary information so you can enjoy this plant in your garden or in pots. In addition, you can discover other aspects of the ornamental plants in general.
- Characteristics of ornamental cabbage
- Light, temperature and location
- Soil and fertilizer for ornamental cabbage
- Watering ornamental cabbage
- Maintenance and treatment of diseases
- How to propagate ornamental cabbage
- 3 types of ornamental cabbage you should have
Characteristics of ornamental cabbage
Ornamental cabbages are prized for their vibrant colors and unique shapes. Their leaves are thicker and shinier than those of traditional cabbages, making them stand out in any garden. They can come in a variety of shades, including purples, pinks, whites and greens, and their appearance is intensified by low temperatures, especially during the winter. In addition, these plants are perfect for gardens where you want to incorporate vibrant colors.
These plants have a rosette-shaped growth that resembles large succulents. They can reach a height of approximately 30 cm and a similar diameter. Furthermore, since they are biennial plants, their life cycle can extend up to two years, generally flowering in the second year.
Light, temperature and location
Ornamental cabbage thrives in a temperature range of between 15 and 18 degrees Celsius, although it is remarkably frost-resistant and can tolerate lower temperatures. In fact, frost can further intensify the color of its leaves. As for light, these plants prefer an environment with bright, but indirect lightThey can adapt to direct sunlight, especially in cooler climates, but in summer, partial shade can be beneficial. For best performance, make sure they receive adequate light, similar to what other plants require.
Soil and fertilizer for ornamental cabbage
The ideal soil for growing ornamental cabbages should be fertile and well-drained. A pH between 6 and 7.5 is most suitable, although these plants can adapt to acidic, neutral, or even alkaline soils. To improve the quality of the substrate, it is recommended to mix soil with worm humus, peat and a little lime if the pH is too low. You can also consult information on the soil suitable for other plants.
Fertilizer should be applied at least once a year, using fertilizers rich in phosphorus and potassium, as excess nitrogen can cause unbalanced growth. Applying fertilizer in spring can help establish a good start for plant growth.
Watering ornamental cabbage
Watering is a crucial aspect of ornamental cabbage care. These plants require moderate watering, keeping the soil moist but avoiding waterlogging, as this could damage the roots. You should allow the top of the substrate to dry slightly between waterings. Good drainage is essential to avoid rot or the appearance of diseases such as rot. mildew. To learn more about proper watering, read about the watering other plants.
Maintenance and treatment of diseases
Ornamental cabbage, although hardy, can be affected by pests such as caterpillars, aphids y snailsTo manage these pests naturally, you can use organic methods such as biological insecticides or manual traps. It is advisable to inspect the leaves regularly and respond promptly to any sign of pests. If you want to learn more about the importance of having healthy plants, check out the article on ecological importance of plants.
Also, if the weather is very humid, it is prudent to apply a fungicide to prevent the mildew and other fungal diseases. Maintaining good airflow around the plant and avoiding watering over the leaves are also helpful practices to prevent these problems.
How to propagate ornamental cabbage
Propagating ornamental cabbage is a relatively simple process. You can do it by seeds or cuttings. Sowing seeds is generally done between May and July, in a light and moist substrate. It is important not to cover the seeds too much, as they need light to germinate. After a few 10 to 20 days, the seedlings emerge and are ready to be transplanted to their final location. Make sure to provide a suitable environment, similar to that required for growing other plants. ornamental plants.
When transplanting, be sure to keep a distance of approximately 25 to 30 cm between each plant to allow for optimal growth. Cuttings can be taken from healthy, resilient plants and allowed to develop in a suitable substrate.
3 types of ornamental cabbage you should have
If you want to diversify your garden, here are three types of ornamental cabbage that are especially popular:
- Crane Series: Famous for its curly leaves, this ornamental cabbage offers a range of vibrant colors, including pink and red.
- Coral Queen: This variety is known for its feather-shaped leaves, with an attractive dark red color in the center.
- Nagoya: With curly leaves and pastel colors, this variety is perfect for a harmonious garden, with shades that include white, pink, and red.
These varieties will not only beautify your garden, but they also share similar care requirements, making them easy to maintain together. For more ideas on how to choose your plants, you can visit the section on pots for indoor plants.
Ornamental cabbage is a wonderful plant that not only enriches our gardens with its beauty, but can also be consumed, adding extra value to its cultivation. With the right information and proper care, you can enjoy its splendor year after year.
