How to Grow Cabbage
March 12, 2023
Cabbage is a cruciferous vegetable that is rich in vitamins and minerals, high in fiber, and low in calories. It is a versatile vegetable that can be eaten raw or cooked in a variety of ways, and is a popular choice for adding to salads, soups, and stir-fries. Cabbage is a particularly important crop in many countries around the world, and can be grown easily and harvested throughout the year.
Cabbage is a cool-weather vegetable that is easy to grow in most climates. With the right soil nutrients and watering habits, your cabbage plants can grow healthy and large heads of cabbage. There are a variety of cabbage varieties to choose from, which can be harvested from late summer through winter. Follow this guide to learn how to grow cabbage in your garden!
Selecting a Variety
There are several types of cabbage — green, red, Savoy, & Chinese — so think about the type of cabbage you’d like to grow. Cabbages are divided into two groups: early maturing and late maturing. Early maturing cabbages tend to take 60-100 days to reach maturity, while late maturing cabbages may take up to 140 days. Select a variety that is best suited for your climate and growing season.
Selecting a Site
When selecting a site to plant your cabbage, choose an area with direct sunlight and good air circulation. Make sure the soil is well-draining and has a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Incorporate compost into the soil to provide the proper nutrients and increase drainage.
Planting Cabbage
Sow cabbage seeds in a well-prepared seedbed about 4-6 weeks before your area’s last frost date. Plant the seeds 1/2 inch deep and lightly cover with soil. When the plants reach 2-3 inches tall, thin them to 6-12 inches apart. When transplanting, be sure the soil level is slightly below the plants’ first set of leaves.
Caring for Cabbage
Cabbages require consistent watering, so make sure the soil is consistently moist but not soggy. Weed regularly, and mulch around the plants to conserve moisture and discourage weeds. Cabbages benefit from a slow-release fertilizer every 4-6 weeks. Monitor for pests, such as slugs, aphids, and cabbage worms. Hand-pick the pests or use insecticidal soap for large infestations.
Harvesting Cabbage
Cabbages are ready for harvest when the heads are solid and tight. Cut the cabbage heads from the plant, or break them off by hand. You can store cabbage in the refrigerator for several weeks, or blanch and freeze for longer storage. Enjoy your freshly-harvested cabbage in salads, soups, and other recipes!
