How to Grow Red Cabbage – Brassica oleracea ‘Ruby Perfection’
Grow red cabbage! It is one of my favorite vegetables to consider for the cool garden season. A great variety is Brassica oleracea ‘Ruby Perfection’ Cabbage. When cabbage opens to its full gorgeousness it is like looking at a giant purple rose. So beautiful!
How to Grow Red Cabbage
Red cabbage is best grown as a cool-weather crop in rich organic soil that is well-drained. Once temperatures exceed 80 degrees F the plants do poorly, so having a cooler growing season – in the fall or early spring – is beneficial for the plants. Planting as a winter crop to harvest in spring means you should sow the seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last spring frost date or you could sow the seeds outdoors around 4 weeks prior to the last frost date.
Cabbage enjoys rich well-draining soil. Add compost or amend the soil with natural ingredients such as rotted manure and leaf mold should the soil need a boost. Fertilize the cabbage when planting with a good organic fertilizer that will help kick-start the plants’ growth. Make sure your plants have been hardened off and are protected from freezing temperatures. Plant after the hardening process is complete.
How to Harvest Red Cabbage
Harvest red cabbage when it has a large and firm center head. Oft times the head will look complete, but you must squeeze it to see if it is firm. If it is firm, it is ready to harvest. All parts of the plant are edible, but the outer leaves are tougher. Move the center head slightly aside and cut with a sharp knife.
Rotate your cabbage crops annually as cabbage is stressful to the soil. The soil needs to rest and be replenished before planting again with cabbage. Once harvested, clean up the planting area in order to reduce pests and disease problems in the upcoming season.
Watch the video above to learn how to plant and grow red cabbage. This delicious and pretty variety, Brassica oleracea ‘Ruby Perfection Cabbage, is a fantastic ornamental edible vegetable. If you cannot see the video above, go to this LINK for YouTube viewing. Meanwhile, Brassica oleracea ‘Ruby Perfection Cabbage (Red cabbage) is a must-have for the cool season garden and is easy to grow and maintain.
Brassica oleracea ‘Ruby Perfection’ Cabbage
