Growing Cabbage
Cabbage is a dependable cool-season vegetable when planted early enough in spring or late enough for a fall crop.
When to Plant
For Central Alabama, cabbage transplants are commonly planted from about January 1 through February 15 for spring and again in late July into early August for fall.
Adjust for your region.
Start With Transplants
Transplants are usually easiest.
Choose sturdy plants that are not root-bound or stretched.
Sun and Soil
Cabbage prefers:
- Full sun
- Fertile soil
- Good drainage
- Consistent moisture
Add compost and follow soil-test fertilizer recommendations.
Spacing
Allow around a foot or more between plants, depending on variety.
Closer spacing can produce smaller heads.
Watering
Uneven moisture can reduce growth and may contribute to splitting.
Water deeply and mulch.
Common Pests
Cabbage attracts a predictable collection of caterpillars.
Watch for:
- Imported cabbageworms
- Cabbage loopers
- Diamondback moth larvae
- Aphids
- Harlequin bugs
Inspect the center of the plant and leaf undersides.
Protect Young Plants
Row cover can be very effective before pest populations build.
Make sure covers are secured at the edges.
Harvest
Harvest when heads feel firm.
Use a knife to cut the head while leaving outer leaves and roots in place.
Some varieties may produce smaller secondary heads.
Why Cabbage Splits
Heads can split after rapid growth, especially following heavy rainfall after a dry period.
Consistent watering helps reduce stress.
Crop Rotation
Do not repeatedly plant cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, kale, and collards in the same bed.
They belong to the same plant family and share many pests and diseases.
GardenGrowz Tip
Fall cabbage is often easier than spring cabbage because plants mature as temperatures are cooling instead of heating up.
