Red Cabbage

I started with a 4" starter plant of Red Cabbage from Al's Garden Center. I planted it directly into the garden soil in full sun. (right) My red cabbage plant in September 2008. Days before harvest, my cabbage developed cabbage worms and was unable to be controlled. Bummer!

Growing Tips: Red Cabbage prefers full sun and should be planted so that it matures before the heat of summer. Plant 12" - 24" apart in rows, if garden space is limited, I wouldn't recommend cabbage because of it's large foot print.

Harvesting: Red Cabbage matures in 70 - 75 days. You can harvest anytime after the heads form. For best yield, cut the cabbage when the heads are solid (firm to the touch). If head splits or cracks open from heavy rain, salvage and harvest as soon as possible because the exposed internal tissue will soon become unusable.

Common Pests: White and brown butterflies are typically the moths of cabbage worms that lay eggs on the plants. The eggs hatch into worms that cause major damage unless controlled. Control should be aimed at the larvae themselves, if they cannot be controlled, discard cabbage, do not harvest.