• Before planting cabbage, find a variety that will thrive in your climate.
• Improve your soil with a 3-inch layer of Miracle-Gro® Garden Soil for Vegetables & Herbs.
• Harvest cabbage sooner by choosing young plants by Bonnie Plants®.
• When using plant starts, plant them 2 weeks before your area's average last frost date.
• Plant cabbage in rows, 12-14 inches apart.
• Add 3 inches of mulch to help maintain soil moisture and prevent weeds.
• Use a soaker hose to keep soil moist while plants get established. Avoid wetting the leaves.
• Feed regularly with Miracle-Gro® Performance Organics® Edibles Plant Nutrition beginning a month after planting.
• Harvest cabbage when heads are firm and approximately 4-10 inches wide.

Cabbage is a hardy, leafy vegetable full of vitamins and other natural health benefits, making it a staple food in cultures across the world. Better yet, with so many varieties and colors, cabbage looks as good in your garden as it does on your plate. Here are a few tips for growing cabbage in your garden.

1. Prepare the Soil for Your Cabbage Plants

Cabbage can be difficult to grow. It prefers cool temperatures, and it can be a magnet for certain types of pests. By planning your growing season and providing diligent care, you may have two successful crops, one in spring and fall. Many varieties are available to suit both your growing conditions and taste preferences. Whichever cabbage you choose, work a 3-inch layer of rich compost or Miracle-Gro® Garden Soil for Vegetables and Herbs into the top 6 inches of soil before planting.

To get a jump-start on the growing season and reach harvest time sooner, plant strong, vigorous young cabbage plants fromBonnie Plants® 2 weeks before the average last frost date for your area. Plant 12 to 24 inches apart in rows, depending on size of head desired. The closer you plant, the smaller the heads. Add a 3-inch layer of mulch to help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

3. Weed, Feed, and Water Your Cabbages

Once your seedlings are established, water with a soaker hose to avoid wetting the foliage. Keeping the soil moist will help keep your cabbage heads from cracking. Feed with a water-soluble plant food, such asMiracle-Gro® Performance Organics® Edibles Plant Nutrition, every seven days until harvest. Weed carefully to avoid damaging the roots of your cabbage plants.

4. Harvest Your Cabbage

Cabbage is ready to harvest when the heads are tight, firm, and 4-10 inches in diameter. Cut the stem just below the head, using a sharp knife. Your cabbage will taste the best right after harvest, although cabbage can be stored in the refrigerator up to two weeks, wrapped lightly in plastic. Make sure the head is dry before storing. In cool, humid places, like a root cellar, cabbage will keep for up to 3 months.