Crop Rotation Group
Brassicas (Cabbage family) ●
Soil
Rich, deep soil, firm with plenty of well rotted compost dug in prior to planting.
Position
Full sun.
Frost tolerant
Yes. Tolerates moderate frost, but damaged by hard freezes.
Feeding
Drench every two weeks with an organic liquid fertilizer.
Companions
Dill, Mint, Thyme, Chamomile, Nasturtium, Garlic, Tansy, Broccoli, Kale, Cauliflower, Cabbage, Sage, Oregano, Agastache and Marigold.
Spacing
Single Plants: 1' 7" (50cm) each way (minimum)
Rows: 1' 5" (45cm) with 1' 9" (55cm) row gap (minimum)
Sow and Plant
Sow indoors in early spring, or set out purchased seedlings.
Our Garden Planner can produce a personalized calendar of when to sow, plant and harvest for your area.
Notes
Try growing different varieties from seed to explore differences in leaf color (such as red cabbage) and type (smooth-leaf or savoy).
Harvesting
Cut heads when they reach the size you prefer.
Troubleshooting
Heavy summer rains following dry weather can cause heads to split. Watch for green imported cabbageworms, the larvae of the cabbage white butterfly. Exclude the adults with row covers.
Pests which Affect Cabbage (Summer)
Aphid, Cabbage
Aphids (General)
Cabbage Root Maggot
Cabbage Worm
Cutworm
Diamondback Moth
Flea Beetle
Grasshopper
Harlequin Bug
Slug
Snail
Plant Diseases which Affect Cabbage (Summer)
Brassica Alternaria Leaf Spot
Brassica Black Rot
Brassica Downy Mildew
Cabbage Soft Rot