How to Grow Cabbage

Cabbage, a member of the Brassicaceae family, is a versatile and widely cultivated vegetable that thrives in cooler climates. It comes in a variety of types, each with unique characteristics and culinary uses.

The most common types include green cabbage, the staple found in grocery stores, red cabbage, known for its vibrant color and slightly peppery flavor, and Savoy cabbage, which is distinguished by its crinkled and tender leaves.

There are also specialty varieties like Napa cabbage, used predominantly in Asian cuisine, and bok choy, which is technically a type of Chinese cabbage. Understanding these varieties can help gardeners select the type best suited to their culinary preferences and gardening conditions.

Published: September 18, 2024.

Choosing the Right Site

Soil Requirements for Cabbage

Cabbage plants are heavy feeders and require fertile, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Enriching the soil with compost, well-rotted manure, worm castings, etc., before planting will provide the necessary nutrients for growth.

The soil should also be able to retain moisture without becoming waterlogged, as consistent moisture is crucial for the development of tight, well-formed heads.

Cabbage reacts well to nitrogen in the soil, growing quickly and large but weak and prone to diseases and pests.

Ideal Climatic Conditions

Cabbage grows best in cool temperatures, with optimal growth occurring at temperatures between 60°F and 70°F (15°C to 21°C).

While it can tolerate frost and even light freezes, extremely cold temperatures may halt its growth, and prolonged heat can cause it to bolt, or flower prematurely, which makes the leaves bitter and loose.

To extend the growing season, consider planting early in spring or late in summer for a fall harvest.

Best Cabbage Varieties for Home Garden

Choosing the best cabbage varieties for a home garden depends on your climate, the space available, and your culinary preferences.

Here are some popular cabbage varieties that are known for their flavor, adaptability, and overall performance:

Green Cabbage:

• 'Golden Acre': An early variety that produces small, round heads perfect for tight spaces.
• 'Stonehead': Known for its resistance to splitting and disease, it produces medium-sized heads.

Red Cabbage:

• 'Red Acre': A compact variety that's great for small gardens, with deep red heads that are flavorful and store well.
• 'Ruby Perfection': A later maturing variety with large, dense heads and vibrant color.

Savoy Cabbage:

• 'Savoy King': Features crinkled, flavorful leaves with excellent texture, suitable for both fresh uses and cooking.
• 'Savoy Queen': Known for its cold tolerance and sweet, tender leaves.

Napa Cabbage:

• 'Blues': Offers resistance to bolting and tipburn, producing oblong heads perfect for salads and stir-fries.
• 'Rubicon': An improved hybrid that stands well against splitting and diseases.

Chinese Cabbage (Bok Choy):

• 'Joi Choi': A robust variety that performs well in a range of climates, producing crisp, tender stalks.
• 'White Stem': Quick growing, ideal for continuous harvesting.

Specialty Cabbage:

• 'January King': A winter cabbage that thrives in cooler temperatures and has a unique, semi-savoyed leaf pattern.
• 'Copenhagen Market': An heirloom variety that produces round, firm heads ideal for sauerkraut.

When selecting cabbage varieties, consider your local climate conditions, as some cabbages are more heat tolerant while others perform better in colder climates.

Also, think about your usage - whether you prefer cabbage for coleslaw, stir-fries, or fermenting, there are varieties best suited to each purpose.

Cabbage Companion Plants

Companion planting can be a beneficial strategy to enhance cabbage growth, deter pests, and improve flavor. Here’s a list of plants that are known to be good companions for cabbage, along with reasons why they help:

• Marigolds: Marigolds release a chemical from their roots that deters nematodes and other soil pests, which can protect cabbage roots from damage.
• Onions: The strong scent of onions can repel cabbage loopers, aphids, and other insects, reducing pest attacks on cabbage.
• Thyme: Thyme, when planted near cabbage, can deter cabbage worms due to its strong fragrance, helping to keep the foliage healthy.
• Mint: The intense smell of mint deters cabbage moths and ants, providing a natural form of pest control. However, mint should be grown in containers to prevent it from overtaking the garden.
• Garlic: Garlic acts as a natural repellent for pests like aphids and can also help prevent fungal diseases. Its strong odor masks the scent of cabbage, confusing pests.
• Celery: Celery can attract beneficial insects that prey on common cabbage pests, enhancing biological pest control around cabbage plants.
• Dill: Dill attracts beneficial wasps that prey on cabbage worms and other pests. It can also improve the flavor of cabbage when grown nearby.
• Nasturtiums: Nasturtiums serve as a trap crop, attracting aphids and cabbage moths away from the cabbage, effectively reducing pest damage.
• Sage: Sage repels cabbage moths and beetles with its aromatic properties, protecting the cabbage plants from being eaten.
• Rosemary: Like many other aromatic herbs, rosemary can help deter cabbage moths and improve the overall health of cabbage by keeping the pest population low.
• Chamomile: Chamomile can improve the growth and flavor of cabbage. It also attracts beneficial insects, which help control pests.
• Beets: Beets help add minerals to the soil, which can benefit cabbage indirectly. They do not compete heavily with cabbage for nutrients.

Using these companion plants strategically around your cabbage can enhance the garden's biodiversity, reduce the need for chemical pesticides, and potentially increase your cabbage crop’s health and yield.

Planting Your Cabbage

Best Time to Plant

The timing for planting cabbage depends on the local climate and the desired harvest time. In cooler climates, sowing seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost date allows young plants to establish themselves.

These can then be transplanted into the garden once the threat of hard frost has passed. For a fall harvest, plant seeds in mid to late summer (zone and variety dependant).

Step-by-Step Planting Instructions

• Start Seeds Indoors or Purchase Seedlings: Begin by sowing seeds about half an inch deep in a seed-starting mix. Keep the soil consistently moist and in a warm location until germination.
• Harden Off Seedlings: Gradually acclimate the seedlings to outdoor conditions over a week by placing them outside in a sheltered area for increasing periods each day.
• Prepare the Planting Site: Till the soil to a depth of about 12 inches and mix in ample organic matter.
• Transplant Seedlings: Plant seedlings about 18 to 24 inches apart to allow ample room for growth. Rows should be spaced about 24 to 36 inches apart.
• Water Immediately: Water the transplants thoroughly upon planting to settle the soil around the roots and eliminate air pockets.
• Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plants to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and keep the root system cool.

Caring for Your Cabbage Plants

Watering Needs

Cabbage requires consistent moisture to develop its characteristic heads. Aim to provide about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week, either through rainfall or irrigation.

It’s essential to water deeply and regularly, especially during dry spells, to encourage deep root growth and prevent the heads from splitting.

Fertilizing Schedule

Cabbage benefits from regular feeding due to its high nutrient requirements. After transplanting, apply a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 formula, and then follow up with a nitrogen-rich fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks.

This will support the vigorous growth needed for well-formed heads. Always ensure to follow the manufacturer's recommendations to avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of head development.

Managing Pests and Diseases

Cabbage is susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases.

Common pests include cabbage loopers, aphids, and flea beetles. To manage these, regularly inspect plants and use appropriate organic or chemical controls as necessary.

Diseases like clubroot and black rot can be mitigated by rotating crops each year and by ensuring good soil drainage.

Employing floating row covers can also prevent pests from reaching the plants without the need for chemical treatments.

Common Challenges in Growing Cabbage

Addressing Common Pests and Diseases

Maintaining healthy cabbage plants involves proactive pest and disease management. For pests, introducing beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and lacewings, can naturally reduce aphid populations.

For diseases, practice good garden hygiene by removing diseased plants and debris, which can harbor pathogens. Using resistant varieties can also significantly reduce disease issues.

How to Deal with Bolting and Splitting

Bolting occurs when cabbage plants prematurely go to seed, typically triggered by high temperatures or a significant fluctuation in weather. To prevent bolting, choose heat-tolerant varieties if temperatures are expected to rise. Providing consistent water and shade cloth during hot weather can also help.

Splitting is another issue, where heads crack open, usually due to excessive moisture following dry conditions. To prevent splitting, maintain even soil moisture throughout the growing season.

Once the cabbage heads begin to mature, you can slightly twist them or lift them to disrupt root growth, which reduces the uptake of water and helps prevent splitting.

With these care techniques, gardeners can effectively handle the challenges of growing cabbage, ensuring a bountiful and healthy harvest.

How to Control Weeds in My Cabbage Garden?

Controlling weeds in your cabbage garden is crucial for ensuring your cabbage plants receive enough nutrients, light, and space to develop properly. Here are effective strategies to manage weeds in your cabbage garden:

• Mulching: Apply a thick layer of organic mulch, such as straw, wood chips, or grass clippings, around your cabbage plants. Mulch helps suppress weed growth by blocking light, while also retaining soil moisture and adding nutrients as it decomposes.
• Pre-emergent Herbicides: Consider using pre-emergent herbicides that prevent weed seeds from germinating. These are best applied early in the season before planting your cabbage. Be sure to choose a product that is safe for use around vegetables and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
• Regular Weeding: Regularly remove weeds by hand or with a hoe, especially early in the growing season. This prevents weeds from establishing deep roots and competing with your cabbage plants. Weeding is most effective when the soil is moist, and weeds are small.
• Cultivation: Gently cultivate the soil around the plants to disrupt the growth of young weeds. Be careful not to disturb the roots of your cabbage plants. Using a garden hoe or a cultivator can be effective, especially between rows.

• Plant Cover Crops: In the off-season, consider planting cover crops like clover or rye. These crops can outcompete weeds and enrich the soil by adding organic matter when they are tilled under before planting season.
• Proper Plant Spacing: Plant cabbages closely enough to shade the soil once they mature. This natural shade can help suppress the growth of many weed species.
• Landscape Fabric or Plastic Mulch: Using landscape fabric or black plastic as mulch around your plants can effectively block weeds. Cut slits or holes in the fabric to plant your cabbage, ensuring that it fits snugly around the plants to prevent weeds from poking through.
• Organic Herbicides: If manual weeding is not feasible, consider using organic herbicides that contain natural acids or oils. These can kill weeds without the use of harsh chemicals, but they may require repeated applications.

Implementing these methods can greatly reduce the weed pressure in your cabbage garden, allowing your plants to thrive with minimal competition.

Harvesting and Storing Cabbage

Signs Your Cabbage Is Ready for Harvest

Cabbage is ready to harvest when the head feels firm, and the size is about as expected for the variety. This typically occurs about 70 to 85 days after planting, depending on the variety.

If the head feels loose or if it wobbles when gently squeezed, it needs more time to mature.

Techniques for Harvesting

To harvest cabbage, use a sharp knife to cut the stem just below the lowest leaves. Leave a few outer leaves to protect the head and improve its storage life.

If conditions allow, you can leave the root and some lower leaves in the ground to possibly produce a second, smaller crop.

Tips for Storing Cabbage Effectively

Cabbage can be stored for weeks or even months if kept under the right conditions. Store cabbage in a cool, humid place, ideally between 32°F and 40°F (0°C to 4°C) with 95% humidity.

A refrigerator or a root cellar are perfect environments. Wrapped loosely in plastic, cabbage can last in the fridge for several weeks. For longer storage, consider canning, freezing, or fermenting.

Can Cabbage Be Grown in Pots and Containers?

Yes, cabbage can be successfully grown in pots and containers, making it a great option for gardeners with limited space or those who want to grow vegetables on a patio, balcony, or other confined area. Here are some tips for growing cabbage in containers:

• Choose the Right Container: Select a container that is at least 12-18 inches deep and equally wide to accommodate the root system of the cabbage. Ensure the container has good drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
• Soil and Fertilizer: Use a high-quality potting mix designed for vegetable gardening. Cabbage needs nutrient-rich soil, so incorporate compost or a balanced, slow-release fertilizer into the soil before planting.
• Select Suitable Varieties: Compact or dwarf varieties of cabbage are best suited for container gardening. Varieties like 'Golden Acre', 'Stonehead', and 'Red Acre' are known for their smaller growth habit.
• Planting: Plant one cabbage per container to avoid overcrowding. If using larger containers, you can plant multiple cabbages, but make sure to space them at least 12-18 inches apart.
• Watering: Cabbage in containers will dry out more quickly than those in the ground, so regular watering is crucial. Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Using a mulch on the soil surface can help retain moisture.
• Sunlight: Place the containers in a location where they will receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Adequate light is essential for the development of the heads.
• Monitoring for Pests: Keep an eye on your plants for common pests like aphids and cabbage loopers. Since containers are more contained environments, they can be easier to manage for pests through regular inspection and prompt treatment.
• Rotation: Avoid planting cabbage in the same soil in the container year after year to reduce the risk of soil-borne diseases. Rotate with different crops or replace the soil if possible.

Growing cabbage in containers can be a rewarding way to enjoy fresh vegetables, even in a small space. With proper care, you can expect a fruitful harvest from your potted cabbage plants.

Using Your Harvest - Cabbage Recipes

Fresh cabbage is incredibly versatile in the kitchen. Here are a few simple ideas:

• Coleslaw: Shred cabbage and mix with carrots, onions, and a creamy or vinegar-based dressing.
• Stir-fry: Combine chopped cabbage with other vegetables, soy sauce, and your protein of choice for a quick meal.
• Sauerkraut: Ferment finely sliced cabbage with salt to create a probiotic-rich sauerkraut.
• Stuffed Cabbage Rolls: Wrap cooked rice and meat in cabbage leaves and bake with a tomato-based sauce.

These recipes can help you make the most of your cabbage harvest and provide nutritious meals for your family.

Few Final Words

Growing cabbage successfully involves choosing the right site, proper planting, vigilant care against pests and diseases, and the right techniques for harvesting and storing.

Gardening not only provides fresh produce but also encourages a sustainable lifestyle. Growing your own vegetables like cabbage, you may reduce your carbon footprint, minimize grocery shopping, and get the chance to choose organic and pesticide-free options for your table. Let your garden be a step towards self-sufficiency and a healthier environment.