Cabbage is a beloved staple in many households, but did you know that by following a few simple steps, you can boost cabbage yield and increase its size and quality?
In this post, we'll show you 11 expert tips to boost your cabbage yield and take your gardening game to the next level. From understanding the importance of soil conditions and fertilizer type to learning the best time to transplant and harvest, we've got all the information you need to become a cabbage-growing pro.
So, whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, read on to discover how to grow the biggest, tastiest cabbages around.
Table of Contents
Cabbage is an adaptable, leafy veggie that's simple to cultivate and loaded with vital nutrients like vitamin C. In any case, to get the best outcomes from your cabbage plants, use the correct strategies for developing and fertilizing them.
1. Choose the Right Variety of Cabbage To Boost Cabbage Yield
The first step to increasing your cabbage harvest is selecting the best cabbage for your climate. Popular varieties include savoy, Chinese, and classic green cabbages. Every kind has its own specific requirements for cultivation; be certain to select one that will grow successfully in your location.
2. Test Your Soil
Before planting your cabbage, I strongly recommend having a soil test to determine what elements are deficient. The soil assessment will provide you with information about the pH level, nutrient availability, and other critical components that can influence the success of your cabbage plants. With the examination outcomes in-hand, you can decide on the most suitable fertilizer to incorporate into your soil. Many local extension offices and universities perform soil tests.
Monitor Soil pH
Cabbage prefers a slightly acidic soil pH between 6.0 and 6.8. The soil's pH level can affect the availability of nutrients, so it's important to test the soil regularly and adjust the pH as necessary. If the soil is too acidic, you can add lime to raise the pH level. You can add sulfur to lower the pH level if it is too alkaline. Truth be told, I've had great success with growing cabbage at ph 7.0
According to the USDA, in 2020, the top five states in the United States for cabbage production were California, New York, Florida, Texas, and Georgia, with California alone accounting for over 30% of the national crop.https://www.ers.usda.gov/data-products/vegetables-and-pulses-data/)
3. Choose the Right Fertilizer
Cabbage plants are heavy feeders, which means they require a lot of nutrients to grow and produce large, healthy heads. Several types of fertilizers can be used to fertilize cabbage plants, including granular fertilizers, water-soluble fertilizers, slow-release fertilizers, and organic.
- Granular fertilizers: are a type of fertilizer that comes in the form of small, granular pellets or particles applied to the soil. They can be made from various natural and/or synthetic materials and “typically” slowly release nutrients over time as they dissolve in the soil. Some granular fertilizers are also formulated to be water-soluble, meaning they can be easily dissolved in water and applied through irrigation systems.
- Water-soluble fertilizers: as the name suggests, dissolve easily in water. These fertilizers are dissolved in water before being applied to the soil or foliage of plants. They are quickly absorbed by plants and provide a quick boost of nutrients (I like to view it as giving your plant an energy drink), but their effects may be short-lived. which means they also need to be applied more frequently than other types of fertilizers to maintain the right levels of nutrients.
- Slow-release fertilizers: are designed to release their nutrients over a longer period, often several weeks or months. They can be granules or coated pellets that release nutrients as they dissolve in the soil. They are often applied as granules mixed into the soil or as capsules placed near the plant's roots. Slow-release fertilizers are a good option for providing a steady supply of nutrients to plants without the need for frequent applications.
- Organic fertilizers: are a terrific method of supplying your cabbage plants with the nutrients they need to flourish. Some of the highest quality organic fertilizers for cabbage include cow dung, poultry manure, leafy vegetable remains, and DIY fertilizers. These fertilizers contain high nitrogen levels, which is imperative for the development of cabbage.
Incorporating organic material into the earth enhances its composition and fertility. It is critical to adhere to the supplier's guidelines while utilizing organic fertilizers, and they should be spread at the base of the flora. Be sure to thoroughly moisten the vegetation after adding fertilizer so the soil can effectively take in. It is also a good idea to perform a soil test to determine the pH of your soil. Cabbage prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. If your soil is too alkaline, you can add sulfur or aluminum sulfate to lower the pH. If your soil is too acidic, add lime or wood ash to raise the pH. - DIY Fertilizer: In addition to organic fertilizers, you can also use homemade fertilizers for your cabbage plants. You can make a liquid fertilizer by steeping comfrey or nettle leaves in a bucket of water for a few weeks. Afterward, your plant food should be ready to use. (FYI, you probably have nettles growing near your area, but be careful when harvesting nettles because they sting). This can then be poured into the soil around the base of the plants. Another homemade fertilizer is banana peel water. Simply let banana peels soak in water for a few days, then use this water to water your cabbage plants. Hint: Banana water is also fabulous for indoor house plants. The potassium in the banana peels will help your cabbage plants grow strong and healthy. I wrote a complete post on how to make banana peel water. check it out.
According to the National Gardening Association, cabbage is a heavy feeder and requires about 1-1.5 pounds of fertilizer per 100 square feet of garden area.
Generally, the best fertilizer for cabbage is high in nitrogen and contains all the necessary nutrients for the plant's growth. Organic fertilizers, such as aged chicken or cow manure, are an excellent choice as they provide the necessary nutrients and improve the soil structure. You can also use granular or liquid fertilizers, but follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates and timing.
4. Apply Fertilizer at the Right Time
When it comes to nourishing your cabbage plants, the timing could not be more crucial. The ideal time to provide fertilizer is when the plants are still in their infancy, only recently sprouted. This will guarantee the plants get all the essential substances required for robust and vigorous growth.
5. Provide The Right Amount of Water
Cabbage plants need regular irrigation to yield big, vigorous heads. Irrigating your cabbage plants deeply is essential for the water to reach the roots. As a general rule, cabbage requires around 1 inch of water per week, but this can fluctuate in accordance with your climate and type of soil.
6. How Much Sunlight Do Cabbage Need
Cabbage must be exposed to a lot of light to achieve large, vigorous heads. The best course of action is to place the plants where they will receive a minimum of 6 hours of sunshine daily. Don't give them too much direct sunlight, as the heat may harm the foliage.
7. Use Row Covers to Protect Your Plants from Cold Weather
If you're planting cabbage in the fall season, I recommend purchasing row covers to guard your vegetation against chilly temperatures. Row covers are porous lite-weight material that can assist in maintaining the plants are warm and safe from frost.
Did You Know: In the 16th century, sailors on long voyages would take sauerkraut (fermented cabbage) with them to prevent scurvy, a disease caused by a lack of vitamin C. The fermentation process increases the vitamin C content.
8. Control Pests and Diseases
Cabbage pests such as cabbage worms, caterpillar, and cabbage loopers can cause significant damage to the plants and reduce the yield. To control pests, you can use chemical pesticides, but it's best to use organic methods such as row covers, handpicking, and natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings. To prevent diseases, you should use proper spacing and crop rotation and clean the garden of debris.
9. Time Your Planting
Cabbage is a cool-season vegetable, so it's best to plant it in the fall or early spring when the soil is cool and the weather is mild. It's also important to ensure that the cabbage is planted in a sunny location because it needs 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily.
Use the information below for general Cabbage planting instructions; however, refer to your specific seed package for more accurate details.
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Planting Time | Spring or fall |
| Seed Depth | 1/4-1/2 inch |
| Days to Germination | 7-14 days |
| Spacing | 12-24 inches |
| Row Spacing | 24-36 inches |
| Sun Requirements | Full sun to partial shade |
| Soil pH | 6.0-7.0 |
| Fertilizer | High-nitrogen fertilizer at planting and again at mid-season |
| Watering | Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged |
| Days to Maturity | 50-80 days |
| Companion Plants | Beets, onions, and radishes |
| Disease Prevention | Rotate crops and remove and destroy infected plants |
| Harvest | Cut heads when they are firm and fully developed |
10. Space the plants properly
Cabbage plants must be given ample room to grow and flourish appropriately. They should be set 12-24 inches apart in the line, with lines placed 24-36 inches apart. This will enable the plants to reach their maximum potential and reduce space competition.
11. Harvest at the right time
Cabbage is ready to harvest when the head is firm and fully developed. Harvesting at the right time will ensure you have the best and most flavorful cabbage. Be sure to use a sharp knife to cut the cabbage head off at the base of the plant.
How To Increase The Size Of Cabbage Heads
- Make sure that it gets at least one inch of water per week.
- Fertilize your plants every two weeks with organic fertilizer or compost, which will help promote healthy growth and larger cabbages.
- To encourage head formation, pinch off any side shoots that form on the main stem. This will help direct the energy into forming a larger head instead of producing more foliage.
- Finally, provide adequate spacing between plants so they have enough room to grow without competing for resources.
5 Things You Can Do To Prevent Your Cabbage Heads From Splitting
If you want to prevent your cabbage heads from splitting, you can do a few things:
- Water your plants regularly and evenly. This will help keep the soil moist and hydrated, which is important for preventing splitting.
- Avoid over-fertilizing your plants. Too much nitrogen in the soil can cause the plant to produce more leaves than it needs, leading to splitting.
- Mulch around your plants to retain moisture and reduce weed pressure.
- Choose varieties resistant to splitting or have thick walls between the leaves.
- Harvest your cabbage when it is firm; if it is too ripe or soft, it will be more likely to split.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are True Leaves?
The second set of leaves produced by a cabbage sprout following the initial cotyledons, usually known as “seed leaves,” are true leaves. These are the initial fully developed leaves that are distinctive to the cabbage species and look akin to a mature cabbage's foliage.
Can I Grow Cabbage In Sandy Soil?
Yes, cabbage can be grown in sandy soil. However, it will require more frequent watering and fertilization. Sandy soil drains quickly and does not retain moisture or nutrients like other soil types. To make up for this, it's important to ensure that the cabbage plants get enough water and fertilizer, especially during the hot summer months.
What Is The Difference Between Water-Soluble and Slow-Release Fertilizers?
Water-soluble fertilizer is a type of fertilizer that dissolves easily in water and can be applied to plants through irrigation or directly to the soil. This type of fertilizer is quickly absorbed by plants and is best used to boost nutrients quickly. Slow-release fertilizer, on the other hand, releases nutrients over a longer period of time, often several weeks or even months. This fertilizer is best used for providing a steady supply of nutrients to plants over an extended period.
Are Cabbage and Cole Crops The Same Thing?
Cabbage and cole crops are not the same things, but they are closely related. Cole crops refer to a group of vegetables that belong to the same plant family as cabbage, including broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts. They are all cool-season crops grown in similar conditions and are often referred to collectively as “cole crops.”
How Do I Handle Heavy Rain During The Growing Season?
Heavy rain can cause issues for cabbage plants, such as waterlogged soil and potential disease. It is important to have well-drained soil and to use organic matter to improve soil structure to prevent these issues. Moreover, applying a granular fertilizer on the surface can supply the necessary nutrients during torrential rain. It is also advisable to use row covers to guard young plants against surplus moisture and harm caused by excessive rainfall.
When Is The Best Time To Apply Cabbage Fertilizer?
The best time to apply fertilizer to cabbage plants is during the early stages of growth before the plants start to form heads. This will ensure that the plants have the necessary nutrients to grow strong and healthy and to form large, high-quality heads.
What is The Best Way To Apply Fertilizer To Cabbage Plants?
The best way to apply fertilizer to cabbage plants is to use a granular fertilizer and apply it at the base of the plant, ensuring to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific fertilizer being used. Using a slow-release fertilizer for a longer-lasting effect is also a good idea. Additionally, you can use a liquid fertilizer or top dressing with a water-soluble fertilizer for an extra boost during the growing season.
Can I Use Fresh Manure or Chicken Manure as a Fertilizer For My Cabbage Plants?
Using fresh manure or chicken manure as a fertilizer for cabbage plants is not recommended, as the high nitrogen content can burn the plants. Instead, it is best to use aged manure that has been composted for at least a year. This will help to break down the nitrogen and provide a more balanced fertilizer for the cabbage plants.
Why Are There Holes In My Cabbage Leaves?
There are several possible reasons why there may be holes in your cabbage leaves. One reason is that the cabbage may have been attacked by a pest such as caterpillars, birds, or other animals. If you see any small insects on the leaves, this is probably what caused the damage.
Another possibility is from poor growing conditions, such as too little water or too much heat; these can cause the leaves to become weak and easily damaged. It could also be due to diseases such as black rot, which can cause holes in the leaves. Whatever the cause, it is important to remove any damaged leaves and inspect your cabbages regularly for signs of pests or disease so that you can take action if necessary.
Why Do Butterflies Fly Around My Cabbage Plants?
Butterflies are attracted to certain plants and flowers, and cabbage is high on their list. The nectar in the flowery heads provides a great food source for these insects. Did you know butterflies use plants as a safe place to rest, finding shelter from predators in the leaves and stems of the plant?
Butterflies may be drawn to your cabbage plants because they offer all these benefits simultaneously! Not only do they get energy from the nectar, but safety and protection as well. It's also possible that other butterflies in the area have found your cabbage before and are simply following their lead. Whatever the reason, it's always a delight to see these beautiful creatures flying around our gardens!
Can You Regrow Cabbage After Cutting?
Yes, it is possible to regrow cabbage after cutting; however, it will take time. First, find a healthy cabbage head and cut off the bottom of it using a sharp knife. Remove any damaged outer leaves, then place the base of the head in a shallow dish with about an inch of water. Place the dish in a warm spot with indirect sunlight. In about two weeks, new shoots should appear. As long as the base has been kept wet and provided enough sunlight, you should see new growth on the cabbage head in no time.
Once new shoots appear, you can transplant them into the soil or transfer them into another container with fresh water. With proper care and attention, your cabbage will grow and eventually form a full-sized head again.
Conclusion
In conclusion, growing cabbage can be a rewarding experience for any gardener. By following the 11 steps outlined in this article, you can increase the size, quality, and production of your cabbage crop. From selecting the best fertilizer to understanding the importance of well-drained soil to grow cabbage successfully.
Remember to watch out for pests and diseases and to harvest at the right time. With a bit of patience, effort, and knowledge, you will be able to enjoy a bountiful harvest of healthy and crunchy cabbage.
