Depth to Plant
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Spacing Between Plants |
Spacing Between Rows |
Days to Germinate (Sprout)
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Soil Temp |
Planting Season
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Plant Height |
No. of Plants per sq. ft.
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Soil Requirements
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 Shop Cabbage Seeds |
0.25 inches deep |
Plants should be spaced 12" - 24" apart |
Rows should be made 18" - 24" apart |
7 - 21 days | 75F - 85F | Spring Summer Fall Winter |
Appx. 24" tall | 1 plant requires appx. 1 sq. ft. | Prefers soil with pH levels of 6.5 - 7.5. |
Growing organic cabbage from seed is a rewarding way to ensure you have fresh, pesticide-free vegetables throughout the season. With proper planning and care, you can successfully nurture seedlings into healthy, productive plants.
Starting Seeds Indoors
Start your cabbage seeds indoors 4–6 weeks before your last spring frost. Fill seed trays with organic seed-starting mix and plant seeds about ¼ inch deep. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Seeds germinate best at temperatures between 65–75°F. Provide plenty of light once seedlings emerge—a sunny windowsill or grow light works well.
Hardening Off and Transplanting
When seedlings develop their second set of true leaves, thin them or transplant into larger containers. About 7–10 days before moving them outdoors, begin hardening off by gradually exposing seedlings to outdoor conditions. Start with 1–2 hours in a sheltered spot, then slowly increase exposure time.
Preparing Your Garden Bed
Choose a location with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Work compost or aged manure into the soil to improve fertility and drainage. Cabbage prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Remove any weeds or debris before transplanting.
Transplanting Outdoors
Once soil temperatures reach 50°F and seedlings are 4–6 inches tall, transplant them into the garden. Space plants 12–18 inches apart in rows 24–30 inches apart, depending on the variety. Plant at the same depth they were growing in containers. Water thoroughly after transplanting to minimize transplant shock.
Organic Pest and Disease Management
Monitor regularly for common cabbage pests like cabbage worms and loopers. Hand-pick larger pests or use row covers to protect young plants. For organic pest control, neem oil or insecticidal soap can help when needed. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases, and rotate crops yearly to avoid soil-borne issues.
Watering and Feeding
Keep soil consistently moist—cabbage needs about 1–2 inches of water per week. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Apply organic fertilizer every 3–4 weeks to support steady growth. Avoid high-nitrogen feeds late in the season, as they can reduce head density.
Harvesting Your Cabbage
Harvest heads when they feel firm and solid, typically 60–100 days after transplanting depending on variety. Cut the main head at the base with a sharp knife. Many varieties will produce smaller side shoots that you can harvest later for extended yields.
With consistent care and attention to organic practices, you'll enjoy a bountiful cabbage harvest that's both nutritious and grown exactly how you want it.
