Highlights
- This is when the plant prematurely forms a flower stalk instead of a head of cabbage.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the head at the base of the plant.
- Store your harvested cabbage in a cool, dark place for up to a week.
Cabbage, a cool-season crop, thrives in chilly temperatures. But what about those of us living in hot climates? Can we still enjoy the crisp, delicious crunch of homegrown cabbage? Absolutely! With a few clever strategies and adjustments, you can successfully grow cabbage even in the summer heat.
Understanding the Challenges of Hot Weather Cabbage Growing
Cabbage is a notoriously sensitive plant when it comes to heat. High temperatures can lead to:
- Bolting: This is when the plant prematurely forms a flower stalk instead of a head of cabbage. Bolting results in a bitter, inedible head.
- Stunted Growth: Hot weather slows down the growth rate of cabbage, leading to smaller, less flavorful heads.
- Pest and Disease Issues: Hot, humid conditions can create an ideal environment for pests and diseases to thrive.
Choosing the Right Cabbage Variety
The first step to growing cabbage in hot weather is selecting the right variety. Look for heat-tolerant varieties that are bred to withstand higher temperatures and are less prone to bolting. Some popular heat-tolerant options include:
- ‘Stonehead’: Known for its resistance to bolting and its ability to produce good heads in warmer weather.
- ‘Red Acre’: A fast-growing variety that is relatively heat tolerant.
- ‘Early Jersey Wakefield’: Another quick-maturing variety that can handle some heat.
Timing is Key: Planting and Harvesting in Hot Weather
Planting:
- Early Morning or Evening: Plant your cabbage seeds or seedlings in the early morning or evening when temperatures are cooler.
- Direct Seeding: For hot climates, direct seeding is often preferred as it allows the plants to establish roots before the heat sets in.
- Successive Planting: Stagger your plantings to ensure a continuous harvest throughout the hot season.
Harvesting:
- Don’t Delay: Harvest your cabbage heads as soon as they reach maturity to prevent bolting.
- Cool Storage: Store your harvested cabbage in a cool, dark place to maintain its freshness.
Providing Shade and Adequate Moisture
Shade:
- Afternoon Shade: Provide shade for your cabbage plants during the hottest part of the day. You can use shade cloth, a large umbrella, or even tall plants as natural shade.
- Mulch: Apply a layer of organic mulch around your cabbage plants to help retain moisture and cool the soil.
Moisture:
- Consistent Watering: Cabbage plants need consistent moisture, especially during hot weather. Water deeply and regularly, ensuring the soil is consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Drip Irrigation: Consider using a drip irrigation system to deliver water directly to the roots and minimize water loss through evaporation.
Nutrient Management and Soil Health
Fertilizer:
- Balanced Fertilizer: Cabbage plants are heavy feeders and require a balanced fertilizer with a high nitrogen content.
- Side-Dressings: Apply a side-dressing of fertilizer every few weeks to provide ongoing nutrients.
Soil Health:
- Rich Soil: Cabbage thrives in rich, well-drained soil. Amend your soil with compost or aged manure to improve its fertility and drainage.
- Soil Testing: Conduct a soil test to determine the specific nutrient needs of your garden.
Protecting Your Cabbage from Pests and Diseases
Pest Control:
- Beneficial Insects: Encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to control pests naturally.
- Row Covers: Use row covers to protect your cabbage plants from pests like cabbage worms.
- Neem Oil: Spray your plants with neem oil to deter pests and prevent disease.
Disease Prevention:
- Crop Rotation: Rotate your crops annually to prevent the buildup of soilborne diseases.
- Good Sanitation: Remove and dispose of infected plants promptly to prevent the spread of disease.
- Disease-Resistant Varieties: Choose cabbage varieties that are resistant to common diseases.
Harvesting and Enjoying Your Hot Weather Cabbage
Signs of Maturity:
- Head Size: Cabbage heads are usually ready for harvest when they reach the desired size for your variety.
- Firmness: The head should feel firm and compact.
- Color: The leaves should have a deep green color.
Harvesting:
- Cut the Head: Use a sharp knife to cut the head at the base of the plant.
- Leave the Outer Leaves: Leave a few outer leaves attached to the head to protect it during storage.
Enjoy Your Cabbage:
- Freshly Picked: Enjoy your cabbage fresh from the garden.
- Storage: Store your harvested cabbage in a cool, dark place for up to a week.
A Bountiful Harvest Despite the Heat: Your Guide to Hot Weather Cabbage Success
By following these tips and strategies, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of fresh, delicious cabbage even in the hottest weather. With careful planning, proper plant selection, and consistent care, you can overcome the challenges of growing cabbage in hot climates.
What You Need to Know
Q: Can I grow cabbage in a container in hot weather?
A: Yes, you can grow cabbage in a container, but choose a large pot to accommodate the roots. Make sure to provide adequate drainage and water regularly.
Q: What are some signs of bolting in cabbage?
A: Bolting is indicated by the plant sending up a tall, flowering stalk. The leaves will often become bitter and inedible.
Q: How do I prevent cabbage worms from damaging my plants?
A: Use row covers or handpick the worms from your plants. You can also spray your plants with neem oil or Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) to control the worms.
Q: Can I grow cabbage in the fall in a hot climate?
A: Yes, planting cabbage in the fall, when temperatures are cooler, can be a successful strategy for hot climates.
Q: What are some good companion plants for cabbage?
A: Companion plants for cabbage include carrots, onions, garlic, and dill. These plants can help deter pests and improve soil health.
