Troubleshooting
Kale problems — and how to fix them
Kale (Brassica oleracea var. sabellica) 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
Cover with insect mesh from early summer.
Aphids in leaf folds
Rinse off with water; encourage ladybirds.
Clubroot
Wet acidic soils; lime and rotate, do not plant brassicas in the same spot for 5+ years.
Yellow lower leaves
Nitrogen depletion in mature plants; side-dress with compost.
Prevent kale problems before they start
Most kale issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Kale problems — FAQ
Why is my kale cabbage white caterpillars?
Cover with insect mesh from early summer.
Why is my kale aphids in leaf folds?
Rinse off with water; encourage ladybirds.
Why is my kale clubroot?
Wet acidic soils; lime and rotate, do not plant brassicas in the same spot for 5+ years.
Why is my kale yellow lower leaves?
Nitrogen depletion in mature plants; side-dress with compost.