How to Plant Cuttings from Tree Kale

Tree kale or brassica oleracea var. acephala is a hardy and nutritious plant that is popular among gardeners. If you want to expand your kale garden or try something new, planting cuttings from tree kale is an effective way. Tree kale is easy to propagate, and its cuttings can grow into healthy and productive plants with just a little effort. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to plant cuttings from tree kale.

Step 1: Choose a Healthy Parent Plant

The first step in planting cuttings from tree kale is to select a healthy parent plant. Look for a mature tree kale plant that is growing vigorously with dark green leaves and a strong stem. Avoid plants that show signs of disease, pest infestation, or nutrient deficiency. The parent plant should also be well-watered and well-fed to ensure that it has plenty of nutrients to share with the cuttings.

Step 2: Prepare the Cuttings

Once you have identified a suitable parent plant, it's time to prepare the cuttings. Select strong, healthy stems that are at least 6 inches long and have no flowers or buds. Cut the stems at a 45-degree angle with a sharp, clean knife or pruner. Remove any leaves on the lower third of the stem and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder. This will help the cutting develop roots faster and more easily.

Step 3: Plant the Cuttings

After preparing the cuttings, it's time to plant them. Choose a well-draining soil mix and make holes with a pencil or a stick. Place the cuttings in the holes, making sure that at least one node is buried in the soil. Firm the soil around the cuttings and water thoroughly. Cover the cuttings with a clear plastic bag or a cloche to maintain high humidity and protect them from direct sunlight, which can damage the delicate new growth. Keep the cuttings in a warm, sheltered, and bright location, but out of direct sunlight. Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not soggy.

Step 4: Wait and Monitor

After planting the cuttings, all you have to do is wait and monitor their progress. It may take a few weeks or even a month for the cuttings to develop roots and start growing new leaves. Keep an eye on the soil moisture, and adjust the watering frequency and amount as needed. If the plastic bag or cloche starts to fog up or smell bad, remove it and let the cuttings adapt to the new environment gradually. Once the cuttings have established roots and produced new growth, you can gradually expose them to more sunlight and reduce the watering frequency.

Step 5: Transplant the Seedlings

When the cuttings have grown into healthy seedlings with several sets of leaves, it's time to transplant them into their own pots or into the garden. Choose a well-draining soil mix and a sunny, sheltered spot for the seedlings. Dig holes that are slightly larger than the root ball, and gently remove the seedlings from their original pot or container. Place them in the holes, making sure that the soil level is the same as before. Firm the soil around the seedlings and water thoroughly. Keep the seedlings well-watered and weeded, and protect them from pests and harsh weather conditions. In a few weeks, your tree kale seedlings will grow into mature and productive plants that will reward you with delicious and nutritious leaves!

Overall, planting cuttings from tree kale is a simple and rewarding process that can help you expand your kale garden and enjoy the numerous health benefits of this wonderful plant. With a little care and patience, your tree kale cuttings can grow into majestic and productive plants that will feed you and your family for years to come. So, don't hesitate to try it out and enjoy the beauty and flavor of tree kale!