26/09/2023
Ways to maximize your cabbage head size when growing them in the field
There are a number of things you can do to maximize cabbage head size when growing them in the field:
• Choose the right variety. Some cabbage varieties are known for producing larger heads than others. When choosing seeds or seedlings, look for varieties that are labeled as "large-headed" or "jumbo" eg Zawadi f1.
• Prepare the soil. Cabbage plants need well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Before planting, amend the soil with compost or manure.
• Test the soil pH. Cabbage plants prefer a soil pH of 6.5 to 7.5. If your soil pH is too low, add lime to raise it. If your soil pH is too high, add sulfur to lower it.
• Plant at the right time. Cabbage plants should be planted in the spring after the last frost. The soil temperature should be at least10 degrees Celsius before planting.
• Plant at the right depth. Cabbage seeds should be planted 1/2 to 1cm deep. Cabbage seedlings should be planted so that the roots are covered and the crown is level with the soil surface.
• Water regularly. Cabbage plants need about 2cm of water per week. Water deeply and less often to encourage deep root growth.
• Fertilize regularly. Cabbage plants need a balanced fertilizer to produce the best yields. Fertilize every 2 to 3 weeks with a fertilizer like compound 2:3:2
• Mulch around the plants. Mulching will help to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Use a 3 to 6cm layer of organic mulch, such as straw, bark chips, or compost.
• Protect the plants from pests and diseases. Cabbage plants are susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, such as aphids, cabbage worms, and clubroot. Monitor the plants regularly and treat any problems immediately.
• Space the plants properly. Cabbage plants need about 30 to 45cm of space between them in row. This will help to ensure that they get enough sunlight and air circulation.
In addition to the above, there are a few other things you can do to encourage your cabbage plants to produce larger heads:
• Side dress the plants with nitrogen fertilizer. Cabbage plants need nitrogen to produce large heads. Side dress the plants with nitrogen fertilizer every 2 to 3 weeks, starting when the plants are about 10cm tall.
• Water the plants deeply during head formation. When the cabbage plants are forming heads, water them deeply and less often to encourage deep root growth. This will help the plants to produce larger heads.
• Harvest the cabbage heads at the right time. Cabbage heads should be harvested when they are firm and solid. If you wait too long to harvest the cabbage heads, they may split.
By following these tips, you can maximize cabbage head size when growing them in the field.
Zawadi F1 hybrid cabbage seeds are available for p250 for a pack of 2500seeds.
Call or whatsapp on 72673078 to get them.
