Troubleshooting
Walking Stick Kale problems — and how to fix them
Walking Stick Kale (Brassica oleracea var. longata) 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.
Wind rock and toppling
The tall, top-heavy stem easily blows over and loosens its roots. Plant very firmly in a sheltered spot, earth up the base, and stake the stem securely as it grows.
Cabbage caterpillars and aphids
Cabbage white caterpillars and cabbage aphids attack the leafy crown. Inspect regularly, hand-pick caterpillars, and dislodge aphids with water or insecticidal soap.
Clubroot
Swollen, distorted roots cause stunting and wilting in infected brassica soil. Rotate crops over several years, lime to near-neutral pH, and ensure good drainage.
Slow, incomplete growth
The plant needs a long season and rich soil to reach full height. Sow early, feed generously, and protect from hard frosts so it can grow on through a second year.
Prevent walking stick kale problems before they start
Most walking stick kale issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for walking stick kale in general rather than its problems? Read the full walking stick kale care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Walking Stick Kale problems — FAQ
Why is my walking stick kale wind rock and toppling?
The tall, top-heavy stem easily blows over and loosens its roots. Plant very firmly in a sheltered spot, earth up the base, and stake the stem securely as it grows.
Why is my walking stick kale cabbage caterpillars and aphids?
Cabbage white caterpillars and cabbage aphids attack the leafy crown. Inspect regularly, hand-pick caterpillars, and dislodge aphids with water or insecticidal soap.
Why is my walking stick kale clubroot?
Swollen, distorted roots cause stunting and wilting in infected brassica soil. Rotate crops over several years, lime to near-neutral pH, and ensure good drainage.
Why is my walking stick kale slow, incomplete growth?
The plant needs a long season and rich soil to reach full height. Sow early, feed generously, and protect from hard frosts so it can grow on through a second year.