Cabbage

Transplant early cabbage soon enough that it matures before the heat of summer. Planting two or three varieties with different maturities can provide harvest over a longer period of time. Late cabbage must be started during the heat of mid-summer, but it develops its main head during the cooling weather of fall. It may be transplanted or direct seeded. Plants should be planted 12” - 24” apart depending on variety and the desired head size. Sow cabbage seeds ¼” - ½” deep.

Use starter fertilizer when transplanting and side-dress with nitrogen after plants are half grown. Keep your plants out of intense sunlight and heat of summer. Common problems are Yellow or Fusarium Wilt, as well as cabbage worms.

Cabbage can be harvested anytime after the head has formed. For highest yield, cut the cabbage heads when they are solid (firm to hand pressure) but before they crack or split. When heads are mature, a rain may cause heads to crack or split.

Fresh, uncut heads of cabbage can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Cover loosely with a plastic bag or use perforated bags. Do not wash cabbage before storing; the extra moisture will hasten deterioration.