did you know?

Ornamental cabbages are closely related to cabbages found in the vegetable garden, but unlike their edible counterparts, these plants do not form dense, solid heads. Breeders have selected plants whose centers turn brilliant colors when the weather cools and the days grow shorter.

general maintenance:

Mulch around plants to keep roots cool, retain moisture, suppress weeds, and reduce any tendency to bolt. Thin plants to 8?12 inches apart.

pests/diseases:

Cabbageworms, root maggots, flea beetles, cutworms, clubroot, and fusarium wilt may occur.

controls:

Install collars to thwart cutworms. Use floating row covers to protect young transplants from flea beetles and other insects. Rotate crops of all brassicas to reduce the chance of clubroot, and use varieties resistant to fusarium wilt where it is a problem.

how to sow/plant:

In midsummer, direct sow 1/4 inch deep in compost-rich soil.

water and fertilize:

Keep soil evenly moist, and water with manure tea every 3 weeks.

garden hint:

Cabbages need stress-free growth. To ensure a good harvest, set transplants in compost-rich soil and provide regular, even water.

features:

• Frost Tolerant
• Winter Interest

garden uses:

• Containers
• Flowerbed borders

other uses:

• Culinary/Edible (use leaves for garnish)