Planting advice for the USA & Canada, Zone 8a

January: Do not grow.

February: Start undercover in seed trays.

March: Transplant 4-6 week old seedlings.

April: Plant seed directly into garden.

May: Do not grow.

June: Do not grow.

July: Start undercover in seed trays.

August: Transplant 4-6 week old seedlings.

September: Plant seed directly into garden.

October: Do not grow.

November: Do not grow.

December: Do not grow.

Space Plants: 45cm (18") apart.

Harvest In: 10-13 weeks.

Grows Best With: Beets, Celery, Cucumbers, Dill, Mint, Onions, Potatoes, Rosemary, Sage, Swiss Chard, Thyme.

Avoid Growing With: Bell Peppers, Chili Peppers, Strawberries.

Planting Cabbage

Cabbage can be direct sowed in warmer months, but otherwise should be started undercover. Plant seeds 0.5cm (1/4") deep, spacing each plant 45cm (18") apart, with the same distance between rows, however a larger spacing will allow for each plant to grow a larger head. Cabbage requires a lot of nutrients, so requires well-draining soil rich in organic matter or compost, and grow best in full sun.

Different cabbage varieties grow better in different seasons, so be sure to pick the one best suited to your planting time.

Growing Cabbage

Cabbage seedlings are ready to be transplanted once they have 5 true leaves. Harden off seedlings by putting them in a safe place outside for two hours, increasing by one hour every day for a week. Once acclimated to the outside conditions, plant each cabbage seedling 45cm (18") apart and water in well.

Cabbages need a lot of water and have shallow roots, so mulching around the plants will help with water retention as well as protecting the roots from the sun. Fertilise every 2-3 weeks with a nitrogen-rich fertiliser to encourage leaf growth. Row covers can help to protect from pests such as cabbageworms, slugs, snails, and birds.

Harvesting Cabbage

Cabbages can be harvested once the heads reach a usable size, usually around 10 weeks. Cut the head at the base of the plant and remove any yellowed leaves. The head is best used immediately, or can be stored in a cool, dry place. After harvesting the head, the base of the cabbage can be left in the garden to grow several smaller heads which can be harvested once they reach roughly 5cm (2") in diameter.

Cabbages left to grow after maturing have an increased risk of splitting, especially in wet conditions. To keep plants in the garden past maturity and discourage splitting, gently pull up the plant from one side and cut some of the roots.

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