Share
Cabbage is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can add both freshness as well as flavour to many dishes like cabbage kofta, cabbage rolls, cabbage salad, and many more. Additionally, cabbages are rich in vitamins C and K, fibre, and various antioxidants, making them both hearty as well as healthy vegetable options.
Video Credits: Urban Gardening/ YouTube
Growing cabbage at home is a rewarding experience that allows you to enjoy fresh, crisp heads right from your garden. Whether you have a big backyard or just a small balcony, you can successfully grow cabbage with a bit of care and attention. By following these simple steps, you’ll be well on your way to a bounty cabbage harvest.
Select The Right Variety Of Cabbage
Before you start growing cabbage, it’s important to choose the right variety for your home garden. There are several types of cabbage, including green cabbage, red cabbage, and savoy cabbage. If you’re new to gardening, starting with a variety that is easy to grow, like green cabbage, might be a good idea. Check with local gardening centres or your region’s growing conditions to pick a variety that will thrive in your area.
Image Credits: Freepik
Pick The Right Location
Cabbage plants need plenty of sunlight to grow well. Find a spot in your garden or on your balcony that gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. If you’re growing cabbage in containers, place them in a sunny area where they can get enough light. Good sunlight helps your cabbage plants grow strong and healthy.
Soil Preparation
Healthy cabbage plants start with good soil. Cabbage grows best in rich, well-draining soil. Before planting, prepare the soil by mixing in some compost or well-rotted manure. This will add nutrients and improve the soil’s texture. Cabbage prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil, so if you’re unsure about your soil’s pH, you can use a simple soil test kit to check and adjust if needed.
Plantation
You can start cabbage from seeds or buy young seedlings from a nursery. If you’re planting seeds, start them indoors about 6–8 weeks before the last frost of the season. When the seedlings are about 4-6 inches tall and the weather is warm, you can transplant them into your garden or larger pots. Space the plants about 18–24 inches apart to give them room to grow.
Image Credits: Freepik
Watering And Fertilising
Cabbage needs regular watering to grow well. Keep the soil consistently moist, but be careful not to waterlog it. Water the plants at the base to avoid getting the leaves wet, which can lead to diseases. Depending on your climate, you may need to water your cabbage every few days. To help with growth, feed your cabbage plants with a balanced fertiliser every 3-4 weeks. Follow the instructions on the fertiliser package or use organic options like compost tea for good results.
Protection From Pests
Cabbage plants can attract pests like cabbage worms, aphids, and slugs. To protect your plants, check them regularly for signs of pests and remove any you find by hand. You can also use organic pest control methods, such as introducing beneficial insects like ladybirds or applying neem oil. Using row covers can also help keep insects away from your cabbage plants.
Image Credits: Freepik
Harvesting
You’ll know your cabbage is ready to harvest when the heads are firm and solid. The time it takes for cabbage to mature depends on the variety, but it usually takes about 70-100 days from planting. To harvest, cut the cabbage head from the base of the plant using a sharp knife. Leave some of the outer leaves and the root in the ground, as new, smaller heads may grow.
