Cabbage is a cool-weather crop that thrives in the fall garden. Known for its crisp texture and rich flavor, fall cabbage has fewer pests and often grows more compact and flavorful than its spring counterpart. However, knowing exactly when to plant it is essential for a successful harvest before the first hard frost. This guide will walk you through the best times to plant cabbage in the fall based on your USDA hardiness zone, along with key tips for growing a healthy crop.
Why Plant Cabbage in the Fall?
Before diving into planting schedules, it’s important to understand why fall is a great season for cabbage. Cabbage prefers cool temperatures, and as summer heat fades, the conditions become ideal for steady growth. Cooler air keeps cabbage heads from bolting, and fall-grown cabbage tends to be sweeter due to exposure to light frost. Additionally, fewer pests are active later in the season, reducing the need for constant vigilance.
General Timing for Fall Cabbage
The key to growing fall cabbage is counting backward from your region’s first expected frost. Cabbage typically takes between 70 to 100 days to reach maturity, depending on the variety. To ensure a full harvest, you should aim to plant it 10 to 12 weeks before your first hard frost date. If you start with transplants rather than seeds, you can shave off a few weeks of growing time.
Let’s now look at the best planting windows by USDA hardiness zones.
When to Plant Cabbage in Zone 3
Zone 3 gardeners face a shorter growing season, so it’s critical to start early. The first frost can arrive as early as mid-September, which means fall cabbage should be started indoors in late May to early June. Transplant the seedlings outdoors by late June or early July to give them ample time to mature. Harvest will usually occur in early to mid-September, just before heavy frost arrives.
When to Plant Cabbage in Zone 4
In Zone 4, the first frost usually hits around late September to early October. Start seeds indoors in early to mid-June and move them outdoors by early July. If you prefer to direct sow, do so in mid to late June, but be aware that you may need to provide shade or protection from summer heat. Harvest should begin by late September and finish by mid-October.
When to Plant Cabbage in Zone 5
Zone 5 gardeners typically see their first frost between early and mid-October. This gives a bit more wiggle room for fall planting. Start seeds indoors in mid to late June and transplant them by mid-July. For direct sowing, the best window is late June through the first week of July. Begin harvesting in October before frost threatens the crop.
When to Plant Cabbage in Zone 6
With first frosts coming around mid to late October in Zone 6, you can start seeds indoors in late June or early July. Transplant by late July for optimal results. Direct sowing is also an option from late June through early July. Harvest will likely begin in late October and may extend into early November with proper frost protection.
When to Plant Cabbage in Zone 7
Zone 7 offers a longer fall growing season, with frost typically arriving in late October or early November. Start seeds indoors by early to mid-July and transplant them outside by early August. You can also direct sow in mid to late July. Harvest can begin in early November, and you may be able to continue harvesting well into the month if temperatures remain mild.
When to Plant Cabbage in Zone 8
In Zone 8, the first frost often arrives in mid to late November. This allows for later planting. Start seeds indoors in mid-July or sow them directly into the garden in early August. Transplant by mid-August for the best results. Harvest can extend from late November into December, depending on the weather.
When to Plant Cabbage in Zone 9
Zone 9 gardeners enjoy a long fall and even winter growing season. The first frost often doesn’t come until December, if at all. You can start seeds in late July or early August and transplant them in September. Direct sowing works well in late August. Harvest can stretch from late November through January in mild years.
When to Plant Cabbage in Zone 10
In Zone 10, fall and winter are ideal for cabbage growing. With frost being rare, you can plant cabbage almost year-round. For a fall crop, start seeds in August and transplant in September. Harvest usually begins in December and continues into January or February. You can even stagger plantings to enjoy continuous harvests.
Preparing Your Soil for Fall Cabbage
Now that you know when to plant, let’s talk about how to prepare your garden. Cabbage prefers rich, well-draining soil with a pH between 6.5 and 6.8. Begin by working compost or aged manure into the soil a few weeks before planting. This adds nutrients and improves structure. You should also make sure the site gets full sun—at least 6 hours a day. This 4 in 1 soil meter is perfect for testing and monitoring your soil.
If you’re transplanting seedlings, space them 18 to 24 inches apart to allow room for the heads to grow. Water them deeply right after transplanting to help the roots settle in.
Caring for Fall Cabbage
Once planted, cabbage needs consistent moisture, especially during dry spells. Aim to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Applying mulch around the base of the plants helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize every 3 to 4 weeks with a balanced vegetable fertilizer to encourage steady growth. Keep an eye out for pests like cabbage worms and aphids, especially early in the season. Using floating row covers can help prevent infestations.
Harvesting Fall Cabbage
Cabbage is ready to harvest when the heads feel firm and solid. The exact timing depends on the variety, but most fall cabbages are ready within 70 to 100 days of planting. Cut the heads at the base with a sharp knife, leaving the outer leaves and roots if you want to encourage a second, smaller harvest.
In colder zones, be sure to harvest before the first hard frost. A light frost can actually improve flavor, but too much cold will damage the heads. In warmer zones, you can let them stay in the ground longer and harvest as needed.
Final Tips for Success
To wrap it all up, fall cabbage offers a rewarding and delicious harvest, especially when planted at the right time. By counting backward from your expected frost date and using either transplants or seeds, you can adjust your planting window to suit your zone. Always focus on soil preparation, consistent watering, and pest control for the best results.
Whether you’re gardening in the chilly north or the sunny south, cabbage is a reliable and tasty crop that fits beautifully into any fall garden plan.
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