My Complete Guide to Growing Cabbage: From Seed to Harvest
Hi! I'm excited to share with you my complete guide to growing cabbage. Cabbage might not be the glitz and glam of vegetables, but it is actually a gem for the kitchen, offering so many reasons to grow it!
Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, there's something truly satisfying about nurturing your own cabbage patch and reaping the delicious rewards.
Contents:
Why you should plant cabbage
First, let me share the benefits of eating cabbage and why you should grow it.
Cabbage isn't just your average leafy green—it's a powerhouse of nutrients packed into a humble vegetable!
It's low in calories but high in fiber, making it a great choice for anyone looking to maintain a healthy diet.
Cabbage is loaded with vitamins and minerals, including vitamins C, K, and potassium, essential for overall health and well-being.
Studies have suggested that consuming cabbage may help reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases, including heart disease and certain types of cancer, thanks to its antioxidant properties.
It's rich in soluble fiber, which has been shown to increase the number of beneficial gut bacteria that can aid digestion and promote gut health.
Cruciferous vegetables like cabbage contain many different antioxidants that have been shown to reduce chronic inflammation.
Cabbage is incredibly versatile in the kitchen, and you can make many healthy dishes with it. The possibilities are endless, from classic coleslaws and crunchy salads to hearty soups, savory stir-fries, and sauerkraut!
Fermenting cabbage not only enhances its flavor but also unlocks additional health benefits, thanks to the probiotics produced during the fermentation process.
Cabbage is fairly easy to grow once you understand its growing conditions (mostly climate needs).
And I love that it is a vegetable that can be grown for a summer and autumn harvest and sometimes even into winter!
Cabbage varieties
There are so many cabbage varieties you can plant. It will depend on your taste preference and the time of year you want to plant cabbages.
Here are a few popular cabbage varieties:
1. Green Cabbage
This is the classic cabbage variety that you're likely most familiar with. It has a round shape with tightly packed leaves and a mild, slightly sweet flavor. Green cabbage is versatile and can be used in various dishes, from salads to soups to stir-fries.
2. Red Cabbage
As the name suggests, red cabbage has a vibrant purple-red color that adds color to any dish. It has a slightly peppery flavor and a crunchy texture, making it perfect for salads and slaws. Red cabbage is also rich in antioxidants, making it delicious and nutritious. These are great for a fall harvest.
3. Savoy Cabbage
Savoy cabbage is easily identified by its crinkled leaves and pale green color. It has a tender texture and a slightly sweet flavor, making it ideal for sautéing or steaming. Savoy cabbage is often used in European cuisine and pairs well with hearty meats and potatoes. Savoy cabbages have a long harvest period stretching from autumn through winter to early spring.
4. Napa Cabbage
Also known as Chinese cabbage, Napa cabbage has elongated leaves that form a cylindrical shape. It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a crisp texture, making it perfect for stir-fries, soups, and kimchi. Napa cabbage is commonly used in Asian cuisine but can also be incorporated into various dishes. Chinese cabbage is another good choice for a fall harvest.
These are just a few examples of the many cabbage varieties available. Each variety has unique flavor, texture, and culinary uses, so don't hesitate to experiment and discover your favorites!
When to plant cabbage
The ideal time to plant cabbage depends on your climate and the specific variety of cabbage you're growing.
Generally, cabbage is a cool-season crop that prefers mild temperatures for optimal growth, but in some places where the summers are not too hot, it can be grown almost all year.
Consider your local climate and weather patterns when planning your cabbage planting schedule. Cabbage thrives in temperatures between 45°F and 75°F (7°C to 24°C), so avoid planting during the hottest months of summer or the coldest months of winter.
Here are some guidelines for when to plant cabbage:
Spring Planting (for a summer harvest)
Start seeds indoors in early April or four to six weeks before your area's last expected frost date.
In regions with mild winters, you can directly sow cabbage in spring as soon as the soil can be worked and temperatures consistently stay above freezing. Cabbage seedlings are sensitive to frost, so make sure your soil is ready and that you don't expect any more frost.
Summer Planting (for a fall harvest)
Plant cabbage for a fall harvest in mid-to-late summer, about 10-12 weeks before the first expected frost date. This allows the cabbage to mature during the cooler temperatures of fall. Cabbage can handle some light frost when it is more mature, making it crispier.
If your area is very hot and dry, hold off on planting until late summer.
fall/ Winter Planting
In regions with mild winters, you can plant cabbage in late fall or early winter for a winter harvest. This typically works best in areas where temperatures rarely drop below freezing, and there is minimal risk of frost.
Where to plant cabbage
When choosing a spot for your cabbage patch, choose a location with plenty of sunlight (6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day). Cabbage thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially in warmer climates.
Cabbage needs well-drained yet moisture-retentive, fertile soil with a pH of 6 to 7.
You also need to rotate your crops each year to prevent soil depletion and reduce the risk of disease.
How to plant cabbage
Now for the fun part! Cabbage can be grown both from seeds and seedlings, depending on your preference and the time you have available.
Here are the steps to grow some yummy, crispy cabbage:
Sow cabbage seeds about ¼ inch deep in seed containers.
Once the seedlings have grown to about 4-6 inches tall, they can be transplanted into your garden. Thin them to one true set of leaves.
Harden off the seedlings for a week before planting them outdoors.
Transplant seedlings outside on a cloudy afternoon, 2 to 3 weeks before the last spring frost date.
Seedlings should be planted in rows 12 to 24 inches apart, depending on the desired size of the head. (Closer spacing produces smaller heads.)
Mulch around the seedlings to keep moisture in and soil temperature stable.
Give them two inches of water per square foot per week.
When young plants are exposed to temperatures below 45°F for an extended time, they may bolt or form loose heads. If cold weather is forecast, cover your plants.
can you grow cabbage in containers?
Yes, absolutely! Cabbage can be successfully grown in containers, making it a versatile option for gardeners with limited space or if you prefer container gardening.
Here's how to grow cabbage in containers:
Choose a large container that is at least 12-18 inches deep and has a diameter of at least 16-20 inches. Cabbage plants have extensive root systems, so providing ample space for root growth is essential. Make sure the container has drainage holes at the bottom to prevent waterlogged soil.
Fill the container with a high-quality potting mix that is well-draining and rich in organic matter. Avoid using garden soil, as it may become compacted in containers and inhibit root growth.
Plant cabbage seedlings or seeds in the container according to the spacing recommendations for the specific variety you're growing. If starting from seeds, sow them evenly across the surface of the soil and cover them lightly with a thin layer of soil. If transplanting seedlings, gently remove them from their nursery containers and plant them at the same depth they were previously growing.
Place the container in a sunny location where the cabbage plants will receive at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, as cabbage plants prefer evenly moist soil. Water the plants deeply whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Since container-grown plants rely on the nutrients available in the potting mix, it's essential to fertilize cabbage plants regularly.
Cabbage grown in containers will mature in a similar timeframe to those grown in the ground. Harvest cabbage heads when they reach a desirable size and feel firm to the touch.
does cabbage need fertilizer?
Yes, cabbages are heavy feeders, so they can benefit from fertilizer to support healthy growth and maximize yields. Providing the proper nutrients ensures that cabbage plants develop strong roots, lush foliage, and large, firm heads.
Two weeks after transplanting, you can fertilize them with compost and three weeks later, apply a nitrogen-rich fertilizer. Cabbage needs nitrogen in its early stages.
But be careful, while cabbage plants do require fertilizer, it's important not to overdo it. Too much fertilizer can lead to excessive vegetative growth, delayed maturity, and increased susceptibility to certain pests and diseases.
At Azure Farm we believe in soil health over fertilizing. We work to add compost to our soil and use organic mulch, cover crops, and crop rotation to ensure our soil is healthy and thus diminish the need for fertilizers.
READ MORE:
how long does cabbage take to mature?
The time it takes for cabbage to mature can vary depending on several factors, including the cabbage variety, growing conditions, and climate.
However, on average, most cabbage varieties take approximately 70 to 100 days to reach maturity from the time of planting.
Here's a general timeline for the maturity stages of cabbage:
1. Seed Germination: Cabbage seeds typically germinate within 7 to 14 days after planting, depending on soil temperature and moisture levels.
2. Seedling Stage: After germination, cabbage seedlings will continue to grow and develop their first set of true leaves. This stage usually lasts for about 4 to 6 weeks, during which time the seedlings may be transplanted into the garden if started indoors.
3. Head Formation: Once transplanted into the garden or when grown from direct seeding, cabbage plants will begin to form heads. Head formation usually occurs around 6 to 8 weeks after transplanting or 10 to 12 weeks after direct seeding.
4. Maturity: Cabbage heads will continue to grow and reach their full size over the following weeks. The time to maturity can vary depending on the cabbage variety and growing conditions but typically falls within the range of 70 to 100 days after planting.
Harvesting cabbage
Harvesting cabbage is always exciting, but it requires a bit of patience and know-how to ensure you get the best results.
It's important to monitor the progress of your cabbage plants and harvest them when the heads feel firm and solid to the touch. Harvesting too early may result in undersized heads, while waiting too long may cause the heads to crack or split.
When to Harvest Cabbage
1. Size and Firmness: Cabbage heads are ready to harvest when they reach a desirable size and feel firm to the touch. The heads should be solid and compact, with tightly packed leaves.
2. Days to Maturity: Most cabbage varieties take about 60-100 days to reach maturity from planting. Check the seed packet or plant label for specific information on the expected maturity date for your variety.
3. Weather Conditions: Check the weather forecast when you plan to harvest. It's best to harvest cabbage before a hard freeze, as freezing temperatures can damage the heads and affect their quality. Similarly, avoid harvesting during hot, sunny days, as cabbage can become wilted and less flavorful.
How to Harvest Cabbage
1. Use a Sharp Knife: Harvest cabbage heads using a sharp knife or garden shears. Make a clean cut at the base of the cabbage, just above the soil level. Leave a few outer leaves intact to protect the inner layers during storage.
2. Cut or Pull?: While it's possible to pull cabbage heads from the ground by hand, using a knife ensures a clean cut and reduces the risk of damage to the plant.
3. Harvesting Multiple Heads: If you have multiple cabbage plants ready for harvest, it's best to harvest them over a period of time rather than all at once. This allows you to enjoy fresh cabbage over an extended period and prevents waste.
4. Storage: Store cabbage heads in a cool, dry place after harvesting. Cabbage can be stored in the refrigerator for up to several weeks, or you can try your hand at fermenting or pickling for longer-term preservation.
The best companion plants for cabbage
I love to companion plant in my garden! It offers so many benefits.
Choosing the right companion plants for your cabbage can help improve its growth, repel pests, and promote overall garden health.
Here are some of the best companion plants for cabbage and the reasons why they work well together:
Onions and Garlic
These pungent alliums are excellent companions for cabbage because their strong odors help deter cabbage pests such as aphids, cabbage loopers, and cabbage worms. Additionally, onions and garlic are shallow-rooted, so they won't compete with cabbage for nutrients in the soil.
READ MORE:
Herbs (such as Dill and Thyme)
Certain herbs, like dill and thyme, can attract beneficial insects such as ladybugs and parasitic wasps, which prey on cabbage pests. Planting these herbs near cabbage can help create a balanced ecosystem in your garden, reducing the need for chemical pesticides.
READ MORE:
Growing herbs - all the essentials to know
Marigolds
Marigolds are known for their strong scent, which repels many garden pests, including nematodes and whiteflies. Planting marigolds around cabbage can help protect it from these pests while adding a vibrant pop of color to your garden.
Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums are not only beautiful and edible but also serve as a natural pest repellent. Their peppery scent can deter aphids, whiteflies, and cabbage moths, making them valuable companions for cabbage plants. Plus, nasturtiums attract predatory insects like spiders and ground beetles, which help keep pest populations in check.
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Lettuce and Spinach
Planting leafy greens like lettuce and spinach near cabbage can provide natural ground cover, helping to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Additionally, these plants have shallow root systems that won't compete with cabbage for nutrients, making them ideal companions.
Celery
Celery is another good companion for cabbage because it can help repel cabbage pests like cabbage worms and aphids. Plus, celery's tall, upright growth can provide shade and protection for young cabbage plants.
READ MORE:
Companion planting with herbs and flowers for organic pest control
With a little TLC and patience, you, too, can soon enjoy a bountiful harvest of fresh, flavorful cabbage straight from your own backyard. Happy gardening, friend!
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Love, Annette xx
