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Cabbage

Brassica oleracea · Brassicaceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

Ideal time to plant cabbage: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.

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ID card

Foliage
Deciduous, blue-green
Flowering
Spring-summer (yellow flowers in second year)
Adult size
0.3 to 0.8 m in height depending on variety
Growth
Fast, 60 to 150 days depending on type
Hardiness
Very hardy, tolerates cold down to −15 °C
Origin
Mediterranean, European Atlantic coasts
Soil type
Rich, well-drained, slightly alkaline

Care

Watering

Water regularly and generously, especially during growth and head formation periods. The soil should remain moist but not waterlogged. Lack of water causes hard, fibrous leaves. In dry season, increase frequency to 2-3 times per week.

Light exposure

Place your cabbage in full sun, with a minimum of 6 hours of direct light daily. Sunny exposure promotes compact growth and well-colored leaves. In partial shade, growth slows and the head becomes less dense.

Soil preparation and quality

Prepare soil rich in organic matter with mature compost added before planting. Cabbage prefers neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Good drainage is essential to prevent rot. Enrich regularly with compost to maintain fertility.

Fertilization

Apply balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during growth. Favor nitrogen-rich fertilizer early in the cycle for leaf development, then increase potassium as harvest approaches. Well-decomposed compost may be sufficient on well-prepared soil.

Pruning and harvest

No strict pruning is necessary. Harvest outer leaves as desired, or wait for the head to fully form (60-150 days depending on variety). Cut the entire head at the base with a sharp knife before severe frosts.

Diseases and pests

Watch for cabbage fly, flea beetles and cabbage white caterpillar attacks. Use insect netting or physical barriers as prevention. Avoid excessive moisture to limit bacterial rot and powdery mildew. Practice crop rotation over 3-4 years.

Did you know?

Common cabbage is one of Europe's oldest cultivated plants: domesticated at least 2500 years ago from a wild coastal species. In the Middle Ages, it was so popular that it featured in most royal and peasant gardens, ensuring survival through long winters when refrigeration was unavailable.

Where to buy it

Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.

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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.