Ornamental kale, also known as flowering kale or ornamental cabbage, does best in full sun to part shade. This means that it requires at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day to thrive. However, it can also tolerate some shade, particularly during the hottest part of the day.
In my experience as a gardening and landscaping expert, I have found that ornamental kale plants that receive full sun tend to have more vibrant and intense colors. The sunlight helps to enhance the purple, pink, white, or green hues of the kale leaves, making them truly eye-catching in the garden.
On the other hand, if you have limited sun exposure in your garden, you can still grow ornamental kale successfully. It can tolerate light shade, such as that provided by a tree or tall shrub, for a few hours each day. Just keep in mind that the colors may not be as vibrant in shadier conditions.
When planting ornamental kale, it is important to choose a location that receives adequate sunlight. If you are unsure about the sun exposure in your garden, you can use a sun map or observe the area throughout the day to determine the amount of direct sunlight it receives.
In terms of companions in the garden, ornamental kale pairs well with other cool-weather favorites such as chrysanthemums, snapdragons, or violas. These plants thrive in similar growing conditions and can create a visually appealing display with their contrasting colors and textures.
When planting ornamental kale, it is recommended to plant them pretty close together. This is because ornamental kale grows slowly and does not crowd out other plants quickly. By planting them closely, you can create a fuller and more impactful display.
To summarize, ornamental kale does need full sun to part shade for optimal growth and color development. However, it can tolerate some shade, especially during the hottest part of the day. Consider planting it with other cool-weather favorites in a location that receives adequate sunlight to create a stunning and vibrant garden display.
