How to grow cabbage

Table of Contents

Cabbage is a cool season crop which takes 4-6 months to mature depending on variety. It does well at
altitude of 700-2000 MASL with optimum temperature of about 15-21°c is considered good for growth and head formation. Temperature of about 25-30°c is best for seed germination and this crop is mainly grown as rabi crop during winter. The ideal soil pH is 6.0-6.5. and here we will discover how to grow cabbages in your farm or garden

Cabbage farming is gaining popularity due to domestic demand occasioned by its nutritional and economical purpose and value. Cabbage is a good source of nutrients, Vitamin A, C, E, K, minerals such as potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium and antioxidants. It can be boiled, steamed or eaten raw. Cabbage makes part of the meals in homes and institution all over the world. Its consumption rate has gone high hence the pressure on farmers to increase their yields. With the improved varieties in the market and proper farm practices, the production is bound to increase and income for farmers improved. The by- products can be used as animal feeds. The popular vegetable also helps improve digestion, keep heart healthy, lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Subsequently, it is economically viable as it is not capital and labor intensive with a potential yield of 10000-15000 heads per acre or 20tons per acre. The seed rate is 120g per acre. Cabbage can grow from seeds or seedlings. Do a soil test before planting, choose best certified variety from registered agro dealers which helps farmers make an informed choice as concerns maturity period, tolerance and resistance to pest and diseases, adaptability, yield potential, consumer preference etc.

How to prepare a cabbage seedbed

Prepare a seedbed with fine soil, mixed with quality compost. Cabbage prefer raised beds for root development and proper drainage. Make furrow ridges and plant seedling 15cm deep, 50cm by 50cm or 70cm by 70cm (for large variety). Apply organic matter or fertilizer at planting and top dressing every six weeks after planting. Water by irrigation and weed for 4-6 weeks then transplant the seedlings having developed three leaves and a 3 inches height. Wet the seedlings 2-3 days before transplant.

What conditions are needed to grow cabbage

Cabbages is amongst the class of vegetables that needs at least 6 hours or more of full sun each day. This coupled with well drained fertile soils will help in giving the plant enough nutrient for growth and it also discourages clubroot disease.

How to transplant cabbages

Cabbage prefers soil with clay content, well aerated, rich in organic matter and high, water retention capacity. Before transplant, plough and harrow land thoroughly to remove weeds and hard pans. Thereafter loosen soil and mix with quality organic matter (10-20tons per acre). Heap soil around plant to improve growth. Provide sufficient water through irrigation to ensure steady supply. Inadequate water supply induces water stress hence aphid infestation. Monitor for pests and diseases. Remove weeds from the early stages of crop growth to avoid water, nutrients and light competition with the crop.

What is the growing period for cabbage?

Cabbages take between 60 and 100 days to mature, alot of this also depends on the climatic conditions and management of the crop. A July planting will begin to form a head as summer turns to fall, and be ready to harvest before a hard freeze.

What is the best month to plant cabbage?

Mid-March though May is a good time to start early and mid-season cabbage seed indoors. Transplant cabbage starts, both early and mid-season starts, into the ground in May and June. Sow seed for late varieties in May, and transplant them out in June through July.

What makes cabbage grow faster?

Cabbage needs nutrient-rich soil in order to grow and maximize production and yields. Some cabbage farmers apply a well-rotted manure and plow the soil two weeks before planting. They also report that they can add fertilizer to the young seedlings about two weeks or three weeks after transplant.

When to harvest cabbage and how to harvest cabbages

Cabbage head matures in 3 months depending on the variety. The head becomes firm and is ready for
harvest. This should be done before the head cracks or splits. Avoid head bruising as this encourages
rotting. Remove the diseased and damaged heads. Grade according to size. Pack in clean well- ventilated
crates or containers. Transport in covered vehicles/lorries.

How long does cabbage last after harvest?

When well stored a freshly harvested cabbage should last 1-2 months in the refrigerator. It’s best kept unwashed in a porous bag and only washed when you are ready to use it. There are various methods you can use for storing cabbage long-term. This includes dehydrating or by shredding the cabbage into small pieces, drying it under the shade then keeping the dried cabbage for later consumption.

You can also check out on the 35 best tomato varieties to grow in USA