What To Know
- The Early Jersey Wakefield cabbage is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including aphids, cabbage worms, and clubroot.
- The best time to plant Early Jersey Wakefield cabbage is in the spring, 6-8 weeks before the last frost.
- Water Early Jersey Wakefield cabbage plants deeply once or twice a week, or more often if the soil is sandy or dry.
The Early Jersey Wakefield cabbage is a fast-growing, compact variety that’s perfect for small gardens or containers. It produces a tender, sweet head that’s great for salads, coleslaw, or stir-fries. If you’re looking to grow this delicious cabbage in your garden, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you get started.
Choosing the Right Location and Soil
The Early Jersey Wakefield cabbage prefers full sun and well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. If your soil is too acidic, you can add lime to raise the pH.
Starting Seeds Indoors
You can start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last spring frost. Sow the seeds 1/4 inch deep in a seed starting mix and keep them warm and moist. Once the seedlings have emerged, thin them out so that they are spaced 2 inches apart.
Transplanting Seedlings Outdoors
When the seedlings are 4-6 weeks old and the weather is warm enough, you can transplant them outdoors. Space the plants 12-18 inches apart in rows that are 2-3 feet apart.
Watering and Fertilizing
The Early Jersey Wakefield cabbage needs regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. Water the plants deeply once or twice a week, or more often if the soil is sandy or dry.
Fertilize the plants every 4-6 weeks with a balanced fertilizer. You can also side-dress the plants with compost or manure.
Pest and Disease Control
The Early Jersey Wakefield cabbage is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including aphids, cabbage worms, and clubroot. To prevent these problems, you can use row covers or companion planting. You can also spray the plants with insecticidal soap or neem oil to control pests.
Harvesting
The Early Jersey Wakefield cabbage is ready to harvest when the heads are firm and solid. Cut the heads off the plant with a sharp knife, leaving about 2 inches of stem attached.
Storing
You can store Early Jersey Wakefield cabbage in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze the cabbage for up to 6 months.
Companion Planting
Companion planting is a great way to help your Early Jersey Wakefield cabbage grow healthy and strong. Some good companion plants for cabbage include:
- Carrots
- Celery
- Dill
- Lettuce
- Onions
- Spinach
Troubleshooting
If you’re having problems growing Early Jersey Wakefield cabbage, here are a few things to check:
- The plants are not getting enough sun. Make sure the plants are getting at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
- The soil is too dry. Water the plants deeply once or twice a week, or more often if the soil is sandy or dry.
- The plants are not getting enough nutrients. Fertilize the plants every 4-6 weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
- The plants are being attacked by pests or diseases. Inspect the plants regularly for pests and diseases. You can use row covers or companion planting to prevent these problems.
Final Thoughts
Growing Early Jersey Wakefield cabbage is a great way to enjoy fresh, delicious cabbage in your garden. With a little care and attention, you can easily grow this cabbage in your garden and enjoy its many benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best time to plant Early Jersey Wakefield cabbage?
A: The best time to plant Early Jersey Wakefield cabbage is in the spring, 6-8 weeks before the last frost.
Q: How much space do Early Jersey Wakefield cabbage plants need?
A: Early Jersey Wakefield cabbage plants need 12-18 inches of space between plants and 2-3 feet of space between rows.
Q: How often should I water Early Jersey Wakefield cabbage plants?
A: Water Early Jersey Wakefield cabbage plants deeply once or twice a week, or more often if the soil is sandy or dry.
Q: How can I prevent pests and diseases from attacking my Early Jersey Wakefield cabbage plants?
A: You can prevent pests and diseases from attacking your Early Jersey Wakefield cabbage plants by using row covers or companion planting. You can also spray the plants with insecticidal soap or neem oil to control pests.
Q: When is Early Jersey Wakefield cabbage ready to harvest?
A: Early Jersey Wakefield cabbage is ready to harvest when the heads are firm and solid.
