How to Grow Cabbage

Start Cabbage seeds indoors 6 weeks before your last frost date, then transplant outdoors 0 weeks after the last frost. Use the search on this page to find exact dates for your ZIP code or city.

Cabbage typically matures in about 70 days from planting. Exact timing varies by variety, soil conditions, and local climate.

Cabbage should be started indoors 6 weeks before the last frost date. This gives seedlings time to establish before being transplanted outside after frost danger has passed.

Cabbage requires full sun to partial shade to thrive.

Space Cabbage plants 18 inches apart to allow adequate airflow and root development.

Cabbage has regular (1-1.5 inches/week) water needs. Consistent moisture is important especially during germination and early growth.

Yes — seed saving difficulty for Cabbage is rated difficult. Cut an X in the head to allow seed stalk to push through. Harvest seed pods when tan. Thresh dried seed stalks, winnow to separate seeds.

Properly dried and stored Cabbage seeds remain viable for up to 5 years. Store in a cool, dark, dry location in an airtight container with a silica gel packet for best results.

Yes — Cabbage is open-pollinated, meaning seeds saved from your harvest will grow plants true to the parent variety. This makes it an excellent candidate for building a self-sustaining garden.