Troubleshooting
'Cavolo Nero' Kale problems — and how to fix them
'Cavolo Nero' Kale (Brassica oleracea var. palmifolia 'Nero di Toscana') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Cabbage white caterpillars
The most common pest; caterpillars skeletonise leaves through summer. Net plants with fine insect mesh and remove eggs and larvae from leaf undersides by hand.
Cabbage aphids
Grey, waxy aphid colonies cluster in the growing point and leaf folds, distorting growth. Blast off with water, encourage ladybirds, or use insecticidal soap.
Whitefly
Clouds of tiny white flies on leaf undersides excrete sticky honeydew that leads to sooty mould. They are harmless in small numbers; wash leaves well before eating.
Bolting in heat
Hot, dry weather or stressed spring sowings can trigger flowering, ending leaf production. Maintain even moisture and time main sowings for late-season cropping.
Prevent 'cavolo nero' kale problems before they start
Most 'cavolo nero' kale issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for 'cavolo nero' kale in general rather than its problems? Read the full 'cavolo nero' kale care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
'Cavolo Nero' Kale problems — FAQ
Why is my 'cavolo nero' kale cabbage white caterpillars?
The most common pest; caterpillars skeletonise leaves through summer. Net plants with fine insect mesh and remove eggs and larvae from leaf undersides by hand.
Why is my 'cavolo nero' kale cabbage aphids?
Grey, waxy aphid colonies cluster in the growing point and leaf folds, distorting growth. Blast off with water, encourage ladybirds, or use insecticidal soap.
Why is my 'cavolo nero' kale whitefly?
Clouds of tiny white flies on leaf undersides excrete sticky honeydew that leads to sooty mould. They are harmless in small numbers; wash leaves well before eating.
Why is my 'cavolo nero' kale bolting in heat?
Hot, dry weather or stressed spring sowings can trigger flowering, ending leaf production. Maintain even moisture and time main sowings for late-season cropping.