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Cabbages

The great thing about Cabbages is that by using different varieties, you can have Cabbage at any time of the year. Of course, it will require planning, as the different varieties need planting at different times of the year.

They all need a firm, well-drained soil. A site that has been used for a previous crop that has been manured is ideal. They also need a pH of 6.5 - 7.0, so it is wise to check this and apply lime if necessary. Apply a general fertiliser at the rate of 2- 3oz per square yard before planting.

Summer Cabbages

The seeds of summer Cabbages can be sown at interval from March to May to give firm heads from July to November. For a slightly earlier crop sow the seeds indoors in January and February.

Winter Cabbages and Savoys

The seeds of these are sown in May and June and the plants thinned out or transplanted from July onwards. The heads will be ready for harvesting from November until the end of January. Some of the newer varieties stand very well through the winter.

Spring Cabbage

The seeds of Spring Cabbage are sown in July or August to provide sturdy plants for setting out in September and October. They overwinter and will be ready for harvesting the following April and May. The plants can be planted out at 6" intervals and 2 out of 3 plants can be used as spring greens, leaving every 3rd Cabbage to mature to a firm head. Boost their growth with a feed in the spring when the plants start to grow again with a high Nitrogen fertiliser such as Sulphate of Ammonia or Dried Blood.

General sowing of all varieties

Sow the seed thinly in a shallow seed drill, thin to 6". Transplant to the final growing positions when they are 3" high and space them out 24" apart each way.

If Clubroot tends to be a problem, the seeds can also be sown in pots or trays in the greenhouse or coldframe and when the seedlings have formed two leaves transplant to 3" cell trays. Grow on until they are 3" - 4" inches tall and then transplant them to the final positions. This gives the plant chance to get a good root system before being exposed to the virus. Use one of the commercial Clubroot dips when planting out.

It is also a good idea to treat the ground when planting with a soil pest killer such as Chlorophos as a prevention against Cabbage root fly.

Harvest the heads as required, depending upon the variety. Remove any yellowing or dead leaves as you pick.

Cabbages are subject to all the usual Brassica pests and diseases such as Club root, Cabbage root fly, Cabbage white caterpillars, Mildew and whitefly. (See relevant Pests or Diseases sections)