Growing cabbages from planting to harvesting is fairly straightforward if you follow the key steps. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Choose the Right Variety
Pick a cabbage variety suited to your climate:
Green, red, or savoy types
Early, mid-season, or late-maturing varieties depending on when you want to harvest
- Start Seeds (Indoors or Outdoors)
Indoors: 6–8 weeks before the last frost date
Outdoors: Direct sow when soil reaches at least 50°F (10°C)
Seed Spacing:
Sow seeds ¼–½ inch deep
Thin or transplant to 12–24 inches apart in rows 18–36 inches apart
- Transplanting Seedlings
Harden off seedlings 1–2 weeks before transplanting outdoors
Transplant when seedlings have 4–5 true leaves
- Soil & Location
Soil: Rich, well-draining, pH 6.5–6.8
Sun: Full sun (6–8+ hrs/day)
Add compost or aged manure before planting for nutrients.
- Watering & Fertilizing
Water: 1.5 inches/week; keep soil consistently moist
Fertilizer: Use a balanced fertilizer when transplanting and again when heads start forming
- Pest & Disease Control
Watch for:
Cabbage worms, aphids, flea beetles
Use floating row covers or neem oil if needed
Rotate crops yearly to avoid disease buildup
- Weeding & Mulching
Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Hand-weed gently around roots
- Harvesting
Ready in 70–100 days, depending on the variety
Harvest when the heads are firm and full-sized
Cut the head at the base with a sharp knife
Leave the outer leaves and stem if you want a second (smaller) crop
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