There are a number of storage cabbage varieties, but the Storage
No. 4 cabbage plant is a perennial favorite. This variety of storage cabbage is
true to its name and under proper conditions holds up well into early spring.
Interested in growing Storage No. 4 cabbages? Read on to learn about Storage No.
4 cabbage care.
About Storage Cabbage Varieties
Storage cabbages are those that mature just prior to the
fall frosts. Once the heads are harvested, they can be stored into the winter
months, often as long as early spring. There are a number of storage cabbage
varieties available in either red or green cabbage types.
Storage No. 4 cabbage plants are one of long-term storage
cabbages as are Ruby Perfection, Kaitlin, and Murdoc varieties.
Growing Storage No. 4 Cabbage Plants
This cabbage plant was developed by breeder Don Reed of
Cortland, NY. Plants yield 4- to 8-pound cabbages with a lengthy shelf life.
They hold well in the field during periods of weather stress and are resistant
to fusarium
yellows. These cabbage plants can be started indoors or direct sown
outside. The plants will mature in about 80 days and be ready for harvest in
the mid-fall.
Start seedlings in mid to late spring. Sow two seeds per
cell just under the medium. Seeds will germinate more rapidly if temperatures
are around 75 F. (24 C.). Once the seeds have germinated, reduce temperatures
to 60 F. (16 C.).
Transplant the seedlings four to six weeks after sowing.
Harden the seedlings off for a week and then transplant 12-18 inches (31-46
cm.) apart in rows that are 18-36 inches (46-91 cm.) apart.
Storage No. 4 Cabbage Care
All Brassica are heavy feeders, so be sure to prepare a bed
that is rich in compost, well-draining, and with a pH of 6.5-7.5. Fertilize the
cabbages with fish
emulsion or the like later in the season.
Keep the beds consistently moist – that means depending upon
weather, provide one inch (2.5 cm.) per week of irrigation. Keep the area
around the cabbages free from weeds that compete for nutrients and harbor
pests.
While cabbages enjoy cool temperatures, seedlings under
three weeks can be damaged or killed by sudden freezing temperatures. Protect
young plants in the event of a cold snap by covering them with a bucket or
sheet of plastic.
