A Complete Guide to Growing Cabbage in Pots

Introduction

We provide the necessary steps for successfully growing cabbage in containers. You will know the tips from choosing the right container to harvest steps.

Types of Cabbage Suitable for Containers

Early Jersey Wakefield: Known for its compact size and fast-growing nature. This variety is ideal for pots. It produces conical heads and matures quickly.

Golden Acre: With its small, round heads, Golden Acre is perfect for containers. It’s a reliable, easy-to-grow option. Golden Acre delivers a robust harvest without taking up much space.

Red Express: If you want to add some color to your container garden, Red Express is an excellent choice. This space-efficient variety grows vibrant, red heads. It offers visual appeal alongside its edible qualities.

Savoy: Savoy cabbage, known for its crinkled texture, is another great option for pots. It thrives in containers and adds a different texture to your harvest.

Best Pot and Soil for Growing Cabbage Plants in Pots

Choosing the Right Pot

How deep should cabbage pots be? Cabbage has a deep root system. So your pot should be at least 12-18 inches in diameter and depth. The roots will have enough room to spread.

You can choose terracotta, plastic or fabric grow bags. Terracotta pots are breathable. They help prevent waterlogging. Plastic plant pots are lightweight and retain moisture well. Fabric grow bags offer excellent aeration for the roots. You can move them around easily.

Drainage is another vital factor to consider. So ensure your container has drainage holes at the bottom. You can drill additional ones if your pot doesn't have enough holes. These allow excess water to escape.

Ideal Soil Mix

Cabbage prefers well-drain soil with a pH 6.0-7.5. You can combine regular garden soil with compost. The loose soil ensures good aeration. The roots can absorb nutrients more effectively. Organic matter can enhance soil quality. For example, aged manure and worm castings.

How to Grow Cabbage in Pots?

When to Plant Cabbage in a Pot?

Cabbage grows best between 60°F-65°F. Plant your seeds after the frost for a spring harvest. This is usually around early spring. Late summer planting is ideal for fall harvest. Because cabbage grows well in the cool months.

You can grow cabbages in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 9. The cool conditions allow the cabbage heads to form properly. If you're growing cabbage in warm climates, opt for partial shade. Consider planting in late summer for a fall harvest. This can avoid heat stress on the plants.

How to Grow Cabbage in Containers?

Direct Sowing vs. Transplanting: You can place seeds directly into the pot. Transplanting means starting seeds indoors with seedling trays. You can move the seedlings into the container when they’re more mature.

Direct sowing is simpler and less stressful for the plant. But transplanting gives you more control over the growing conditions early on. This helps you avoid late frosts or unexpected weather changes. Starting your seeds indoors provides more reliable results.

Seed Depth and Spacing: Sow them about ½ inch deep in the soil when growing cabbage in pots. Plant one cabbage per pot to ensure they have enough room to grow. Overcrowding can lead to small cabbage heads. Space the seedlings 12-18 inches apart when transplanting.

Watering Tips: Consistent water cabbage deeply during the first few weeks. Check the soil daily, especially during hot weather. It will dry out more quickly in small pots.

Companion Plants for Cabbage

Cabbage Companion Plants: You should plant cabbage and herbs together. For example, rosemary, thyme and sage. They can keep cabbage moths at bay. Marigolds attract beneficial insects. They also deter common cabbage pests. For example, aphids and whiteflies.

Additionally, other leafy vegetables can share pot space with cabbage if planted around the edges. For example, lettuce or spinach. Because their shallow root systems won't compete with cabbage deep roots.

What Not to Plant with Cabbage: You should avoid some cabbage bad companion plants. They can interfere with its growth. For instance, tomatoes and pole beans are known to stunt cabbage growth.

These plants have different nutrient and sunlight needs. Their proximity may create competition for resources. It’s best to keep your cabbage away from these plants.

Caring for Your Potted Cabbage

How Often Should You Water Cabbage in Pots?

Cabbage requires consistent watering. But overwatering can lead to root rot. Watering your cabbage with 1-2 inches of water per week. Typically, water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry. Add mulch can also retain soil moisture, reduces evaporation.

Fertilizing

Cabbage is a heavy feeder. It demands nutrients to support its leafy growth and head development. Organic fertilizers are excellent for cabbage plants. For example, fish emulsion or compost tea.

Feed your cabbage every 2-3 weeks. Make sure the fertilizer is high in nitrogen. Fertilize too much can lead to small cabbage heads. You also need to follow the recommended guidelines.

Sunlight Requirements

Your pots should receive 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. Place the potted cabbage on south-facing balconies and patios. If you only have a small space, rotate your pots regularly. Ensure all sides of the plant get adequate sun exposure.

Pest and Disease Management

Common Pests

Aphids suck the sap of plants. Cabbage worms chew the leaves. They can cause significant damage. Flea beetles create small holes in leaves. This will reduce photosynthesis.

For organic pest control, hand-picking is an effective method for visible pests. For example, cabbage worms. Simply remove them and dispose of them away from the plant.

Neem oil is another safe, natural option. It can combat aphids and other insects. Spraying it on the leaves. This can disrupt pest feeding and breeding. Beneficial insects can reduce aphid populations. Ladybugs and other predatory insects feed on common pests.

Common Diseases

Clubroot affects the roots, leading to stunted growth. Black rot causes yellowing leaves and dark lesions. Both diseases can significantly reduce yield. Crop rotation is crucial, even in containers. You should clean pots and tools before reusing them.

Regularly inspect your plants for pests and disease. If issues arise early, they can often be managed effectively. Consider using floating row covers to shield your cabbage from pests. They allow light and air to reach the plant, offering an additional layer of protection.

Harvesting Your Potted Cabbage

When to Harvest Cabbage in a Pot?

Harvest when the heads reach 4-6 inches in diameter. They will feel firm to the touch. Cabbage will take 70-120 days to mature. This depends on the variety. Check your specific cabbage variety for its expected harvest time. Observe the size and firmness of the heads to ensure they are ready.

How to Harvest Cabbage in Containers?

Harvest your cabbage with a sharp knife. Cut the head at the base of the plant. Be careful not to damage the remaining plant.

After the first harvest, continue watering and caring for the plant to encourage this secondary growth. This allows for a bonus harvest in the same growing season.