Why Grow Cabbage?
Cabbage is not only a delicious addition to any garden but also a beautiful edible landscape plant. With varieties like green, red, Napa, and Pakchoy, there’s a type of cabbage for every taste. It thrives in cool weather and can withstand light frost, making it an excellent choice for fall and spring gardens.
Planting Tips
Starting Seeds
- For spring harvests, start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost or sow them outdoors as soon as the ground is workable.
- For fall harvests, plant seeds 10-12 weeks before the first frost.
- Sow seeds ½ inch deep, and once sprouted, thin to one plant per cell.
Transplanting
- Transplant seedlings into the garden when they have 5-6 true leaves (about 4-6 weeks old).
- Choose a spot with well-drained soil, rich in organic matter, and slightly acidic (pH 6-6.5).
- Space plants 12 inches apart for compact varieties or 18 inches for larger varieties.
Care Tips
- Watering: Cabbage requires consistent watering until heads start to form. Reduce water to prevent splitting as the heads mature.
- Mulching: Apply mulch to conserve moisture and prevent weeds. Cabbage has shallow roots and dislikes disturbance.
- Fertilizing: Add compost and a balanced organic fertilizer like Down to Earth Bio-Live to enrich the soil.
Pest Management
Protect your cabbage from common pests such as caterpillars, slugs, snails, and cutworms:
- Floating Row Covers: Shield your plants from pests while allowing sunlight and water to pass through.
- Sluggo Plus: Use this organic option for managing slugs, snails, and other pests. Spread it around plants following the instructions.
Harvesting & Storing
- Cabbage is ready to harvest 55-75 days after planting when the head feels firm.
- Cut the cabbage at the base with a sharp knife. Some plants may produce smaller heads after the first harvest.
- Store cabbage in the refrigerator for a few weeks or in a root cellar for several months. Alternatively, make sauerkraut to enjoy cabbage year-round!
Grow delicious cabbage in your garden and enjoy its versatility in the kitchen. Grow organic for life!
