Hi! Im excited to share with you my complete guide to growing cabbage. Cabbage isn’t the most flashy vegetable, but it’s a real gem in the kitchen, and there are lots of good reasons to grow it.
Whether you’ve been gardening for a long time or are just starting out, there’s something very satisfying about taking care of your own cabbage patch and enjoying the tasty results.
Transplanting cabbage seedlings at the right time is crucial for ensuring a successful crop. Cabbage is a cool season vegetable that can tolerate some frost, so it is usually one of the first crops planted in the spring garden. Knowing when cabbage seedlings are ready to be moved from indoor growing areas to the outdoor garden bed will optimize growth and lead to an abundant harvest.
When are Cabbage Seedlings Ready for Transplanting?
Cabbage seedlings typically take 5-7 weeks to grow large enough to be transplanted outdoors. There are a few signs to look for to know your cabbage seedlings are ready:
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The seedlings have 3-4 true leaves. The first leaves that emerge after germination are rounded cotyledon leaves. True leaves are more elongated and look like miniature versions of mature cabbage leaves. Once the third or fourth true leaf emerges the plant is ready.
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The stems are thick and sturdy not long and leggy. Good air circulation and proper sunlight prevent leggy growth. Stocky seedlings with short distances between leaves indicate quality growth.
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Roots fill the cell but are not becoming rootbound. Gently remove a seedling to check root growth. Healthy white roots reaching the edges of the cell show the plant is ready for more space. Avoid transplanting rootbound plants.
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The seedling has been hardened off. Hardening off means gradually exposing seedlings to outdoor conditions over 7-10 days. This toughens tissues for transplant shock resistance.
Hardened off cabbage seedlings with 3-4 true leaves and filled out root systems are prime for transplanting. Carefully monitoring growth will ensure seedlings are moved at the ideal stage.
When to Transplant Cabbage Seedlings Outdoors
In addition to growth stage, outdoor conditions must be right for transplanting cabbage successfully. Here are timing guidelines:
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Spring cabbage – Transplant 4-6 weeks before the last expected spring frost. Cabbage seedlings can tolerate temperatures down to 20°F (-6°C) so light frosts are ok.
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Fall cabbage – Start seeds in summer and transplant 8-10 weeks before the first expected fall frost. Established plants can overwinter in climates with mild winters.
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Overwintering cabbage – Sow seeds mid-summer and transplant 8-10 weeks before first fall frost. Let established plants overwinter for an early spring harvest.
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ZoneDependent Timing – In warmer zones like 9-10, cabbage can be fall/winter crop. In zones 3-5, it’s spring/summer crop. Know your seasonal temps.
Aim to transplant cabbage seedlings in the window between hardening off and onset of temperature extremes. Adjust timing for your climate and seasonal weather.
How to Transplant Cabbage Seedlings
Follow these simple steps for successful cabbage seedling transplantation:
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Prepare beds – Loosen soil and mix in 1-2 inches of mature compost or fertilizer 2-3 weeks before transplanting. This gives nutrients time to integrate. Rake smooth.
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Water seedlings – Thoroughly water seedling cells well before removing plants to prevent root damage during extraction.
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Dig holes – Make holes in garden beds 12-18 inches apart and deep/wide enough to accommodate root balls.
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Carefully remove – Gently detach seedlings from cells using a spoon or fingers, avoiding root disturbance. Support stems.
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Transplant – Place each seedling into a hole with the top 2-3 leaves above soil level. Firm soil around stems.
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Water – Water transplants immediately to eliminate air pockets and wet roots. Provide consistent moisture for several weeks.
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Protect – Use row cover or cloches if cold temperatures threaten. Monitor for pests like cutworms.
With proper timing, technique, and aftercare, transplanted cabbage seedlings will flourish. Just be sure to harden off, transplant at the right growth stage, and tend seedlings carefully. With a little attention to details, you’ll be harvesting heads of homegrown cabbage in no time!
Troubleshooting Transplanting Issues
If cabbage seedlings struggle after transplanting, a few common problems may be to blame:
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Incorrect hardening off – Insufficient toughening leads to shock. Gradually acclimate seedlings over 7-10 days.
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Leggy or rootbound – Weak, leggy, or potbound seedlings are more prone to transplant stress. Start over with new healthy seedlings.
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Incorrect timing – Transplanting before hardening off or when weather is still unsettled stresses plants. Follow guidelines.
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Inadequate watering – Ensure consistent moisture for transplants. Drying out causes stunted growth. Prioritize water needs.
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Hungry plants – Mixing compost into beds before transplanting prevents nutrient deficiencies. Fertilize if leaves yellow.
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Pests/disease – Prevent cutworms, root maggots, damping off disease which target seedlings. Employ barriers/sprays.
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Temperature extremes – Protect from frosts and heat with cloches and mulches. Select appropriate planting times.
Catching issues early and making adjustments will get struggling transplants back on track. With attentive care, cabbage seedlings will thrive in their new garden home.
Transplanting cabbage seedlings is a rite of spring for many gardeners. Following best practices for timing, technique, and aftercare will set your cabbage crop up for success. Before you know it, you’ll be harvesting crisp, delicious heads packed with essential vitamins from your own backyard. So get those seedlings ready for their big garden debut!
can you grow cabbage in containers?
Yes, cabbage can be grown successfully in containers. This makes it a useful choice for gardeners who don’t have a lot of room or who like to garden in containers.
Heres how to grow cabbage in containers:
- Pick a large container that is at least 12 to 18 inches deep and 16 to 20 inches across. Because cabbage plants have deep roots, it’s important to give them plenty of room to grow. Make sure the bottom of the container has holes for drainage so the soil doesn’t get too wet.
- Use a good potting mix that drains well and is full of organic matter to fill the pot. Don’t use garden soil because it might get packed down in containers and stop roots from growing.
- Plant cabbage seedlings or seeds in the pot according to the variety’s instructions for how far apart they should be. Spread the seeds out evenly on the ground and lightly cover them with soil if you are starting from seeds. When moving seedlings, take them out of their nursery pots carefully and plant them at the same depth they were growing at before.
- Put the pot somewhere sunny so the cabbage plants can get at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight every day. Keep the soil moist but not soaked, as cabbage plants like soil that is consistently moist. When the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, give the plants a lot of water.
- Because plants grown in pots depend on the nutrients in the potting mix, cabbage plants need to be fertilized often.
- Cabbage grown in pots will be ready to eat at the same time as cabbage grown in the ground. Pick cabbage heads when they’re the right size and feel firm when you touch them.
Why you should plant cabbage
First, let me share the benefits of eating cabbage and why you should grow it.
Cabbage isnt just your average leafy green—its a powerhouse of nutrients packed into a humble vegetable!
- It’s low in calories and high in fiber, so it’s a great choice for people who want to eat healthy.
- There are many vitamins and minerals in cabbage, like vitamins C, K, and potassium, which are good for your health and well-being.
- Because cabbage is high in antioxidants, some studies suggest that eating it may help lower the risk of some chronic diseases, such as heart disease and some types of cancer.
- It has a lot of soluble fiber, which raises the number of good bacteria in the gut. These bacteria can help digestion and keep the gut healthy.
- Many antioxidants found in cruciferous vegetables, like cabbage, have been shown to lower long-term inflammation.
- You can use cabbage in a lot of different ways in the kitchen to make healthy meals. You can make anything, from simple coleslaw and crunchy salads to hearty soups, savory stir-fries, and sauerkraut!
- Because probiotics are made during fermentation, fermenting cabbage not only makes it taste better but also opens up other health benefits.
- Once you know how to grow cabbage (mostly what it needs in terms of climate), it’s not too hard.
- I also love that it’s a vegetable that can be grown all summer, all fall, and sometimes even all winter!
There are so many cabbage varieties you can plant. It will depend on your taste preference and the time of year you want to plant cabbages.
Here are a few popular cabbage varieties:
This is the classic cabbage variety that youre likely most familiar with. It has a round shape with tightly packed leaves and a mild, slightly sweet flavor. Green cabbage is versatile and can be used in various dishes, from salads to soups to stir-fries.
As the name suggests, red cabbage has a vibrant purple-red color that adds color to any dish. It has a slightly peppery flavor and a crunchy texture, making it perfect for salads and slaws. Red cabbage is also rich in antioxidants, making it delicious and nutritious. These are great for a fall harvest.
Savoy cabbage is easily identified by its crinkled leaves and pale green color. It has a tender texture and a slightly sweet flavor, making it ideal for sautéing or steaming. Savoy cabbage is often used in European cuisine and pairs well with hearty meats and potatoes. Savoy cabbages have a long harvest period stretching from autumn through winter to early spring.
Also known as Chinese cabbage, Napa cabbage has elongated leaves that form a cylindrical shape. It tastes mild and slightly sweet and is crisp, which makes it great for soups, stir-fries, and kimchi. Napa cabbage is commonly used in Asian cuisine but can also be incorporated into various dishes. Chinese cabbage is another good choice for a fall harvest.
These are just a few examples of the many cabbage varieties available. Each variety has unique flavor, texture, and culinary uses, so dont hesitate to experiment and discover your favorites!.
Transplanting – Transplanting Cabbage
FAQ
Does cabbage like to be transplanted?
When can cabbage seedlings be planted outside?
Can you plant leggy cabbage seedlings deeper?
What is the trick to growing cabbage?
How big should cabbage seedlings be when transplanted?
When transplanting cabbage seedlings, their size is a critical factor for successful growth. Aim to transplant them when they reach a height of 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm). At this stage, the seedlings should have developed several true leaves, indicating readiness for transplantation.
When should I transplant cabbage seeds?
Knowing when and how to transplant the tender seedlings is essential to successful growth and production of abundant cabbage heads. Cabbage plants are one of the first vegetables to be set out in the garden after weeks under indoor grow lights, usually in early spring.
When do cabbage plants grow?
Cabbage plants are one of the first vegetables to be set out in the garden after weeks under indoor grow lights, usually in early spring. Once the plants have developed two to three true leaves, they are ready for transplant. True leaves, although small at first from underdevelopment, resemble the plant’s mature leaf in shape and color.
Can You transplant cabbage seedlings?
You can thin your cabbage seedlings while transplanting them. Keep the viable ones and space them 18 to 24 inches apart. Keeping cabbage plants too close together will result in smaller heads. Bury the cabbage seedlings to the same depth that they were already growing. Two weeks after transplanting, you can start fertilizing your cabbage plants.
How to plant cabbage seedlings?
However, it is crucial to prepare the soil before transplanting cabbage seedlings for the best results. The ideal soil for cabbage is loamy, with a good balance of sand, silt, and clay. It should be loose and easy to work but with enough structure to hold moisture and nutrients. The pH level of the soil should be between 6.0 and 7.0.
How do you fertilize a cabbage plant after transplanting?
Bury the cabbage seedlings to the same depth that they were already growing. Two weeks after transplanting, you can start fertilizing your cabbage plants. Use a balanced fertilizer such as a 10-10-10. Avoid fertilizers with extra nitrogen after the heads have formed, as it can cause splitting.