How to Grow Cabbage Plants
Cabbage is a hardy vegetable that can come in a variety of pretty colors ranging from a very light green to darker greens and red shades. The plant has a mild flavor and is often used in soups or coleslaw, as well as eaten cooked and lightly salted. It is high in vitamins and fairly easy to grow. Although there are many varieties of cabbage available, green cabbage tends to be the most commonly grown in vegetable gardens. Below, we have provided some tips for cabbage farming in your very own backyard to help you grow the most beautiful and flavorful plants.
When to Grow Cabbage
The best time to begin planting cabbage is right before the summer heat sets in. You may choose to either grow it inside and then transplant it, or grow it directly in the garden, which is recommended in order to allow the plant to properly adapt to the outside temperature.
Appropriate Spacing for Cabbage
Plant the cabbage about 2 inches deep, and plant anywhere from 1 to 2 feet apart, depending on your desired size for the heads at full growth.
Cabbage Soil Preferences
Cabbage seeds prefer nitrogen fertilizer and dark soil. They like moist soil, and it is advised to provide proper irrigation so that the plants can maintain a good, constant moisture level without overwatering.
Cabbage Plants & Disease
Cabbage is prone to wilting diseases and something called black rot. Both of these conditions should be looked out for. Each can be prevented by providing a good balance of moisture and dryness. Insects can also spread disease, so be sure to keep an eye on pests as well.
Harvesting & Enjoying Your Cabbage Plant
When your cabbage is ready to be harvested, you will know by pressing your hand firmly on the head and feeling the texture and resistance to pressure. Be careful not to wait too long to harvest, or else the heads can split and the plant will rot. Leave some leaves intact and cut as close to the base of the head as possible, leaving the stem intact and in the ground. Butterflies are usually attracted to cabbage, and while beautiful, they can lay eggs in the cabbage plants and cause harm, so look into proper control strategies for these. Cabbage is a beautiful and healthy vegetable that the whole family will enjoy eating.
