Troubleshooting
Scarlet Kale problems — and how to fix them
Scarlet Kale (Brassica oleracea var. sabellica 'Scarlet') 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 caterpillars
Cabbage white and looper caterpillars chew holes and conceal themselves in the curls. Cover with insect mesh, hand-pick, or treat with Bt to protect young plants.
Cabbage aphid
Grey-waxy aphid colonies pack into the frilled leaves and growing tip. Dislodge with water, use insecticidal soap, and encourage ladybirds and hoverflies.
Clubroot
Stunting and wilting with swollen, distorted roots in infected soil. Rotate brassicas, raise pH toward neutral with lime, and improve drainage; spores persist for years.
Faded colour and bitterness
Warm weather keeps leaves greener and tougher. The scarlet hue and sweetness develop with cold; harvest after a frost for the best colour and flavour.
Prevent scarlet kale problems before they start
Most scarlet kale issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for scarlet kale in general rather than its problems? Read the full scarlet kale care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Scarlet Kale problems — FAQ
Why is my scarlet kale cabbage caterpillars?
Cabbage white and looper caterpillars chew holes and conceal themselves in the curls. Cover with insect mesh, hand-pick, or treat with Bt to protect young plants.
Why is my scarlet kale cabbage aphid?
Grey-waxy aphid colonies pack into the frilled leaves and growing tip. Dislodge with water, use insecticidal soap, and encourage ladybirds and hoverflies.
Why is my scarlet kale clubroot?
Stunting and wilting with swollen, distorted roots in infected soil. Rotate brassicas, raise pH toward neutral with lime, and improve drainage; spores persist for years.
Why is my scarlet kale faded colour and bitterness?
Warm weather keeps leaves greener and tougher. The scarlet hue and sweetness develop with cold; harvest after a frost for the best colour and flavour.