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Great plant for fall and winter gardens.Full DescriptionAs the seasons change and the temperatures cool, ornamental kale comes into its full glory. The color intensifies with the cold, bringing shades of red and purple to the garden. Beautiful when partnered with pansies in containers or beds by the house..How to Sow and PlantPlanting from Transplants in Fall:Kale prefers a rich, well-drained soil, and can tolerate some shade. Avoid areas where any member of the cabbage family grew the year before. May also be planted in containers, including window boxes.Prepare the bed by turning the soil under to a depth of 8 inches. Level with a rake to remove clumps of grass and stones.Dig a hole for each plant large enough to amply accommodate the root ball. Space plants 1-1½ feet apart in rows 2 feet apart.Carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently loosen the root ball with your hands to encourage good root development.Place the top of the root ball even with the level of the surrounding soil. Fill with soil to the top of the root ball. Press soil down firmly with your hand.Use the plant tag as a location marker.Thoroughly water and apply a light mulch layer on top of the soil (1-2 inches) to conserve water and reduce weeds.Keep weeds under control during the growing season. Weeds compete with plants for water, space and nutrients, so control them by either cultivating often or use a mulch to prevent their seeds from germinating. Avoid disturbing the soil around the plants when weeding.Keep plants well watered during dry periods to promote rapid, uninterrupted growth.Monitor for pests and diseases. Check with your local Cooperative Extension Service for pest controls recommended for your area. While small, floating row covers will help to keep pests at bay.Harvest and Preserving TipsThe color of ornamental kale will intensify once the plants are exposed to frost.Ornamental kale can survive a light frost.Once the ground freezes its growing season is complete.