As an experienced gardener, I can assure you that it is not too late to start cabbage seeds, as long as you wait until midsummer. Cabbage seeds can be sown anytime from midsummer to late summer, or even early fall in mild climates. The key is to sow them when the weather is still warm enough for germination.
One important thing to note is that cabbage seeds can germinate in temperatures as low as 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4 degrees Celsius). So, even if the weather starts to cool down, as long as it is not freezing, you can still successfully sow cabbage seeds.
I remember one year when I decided to sow cabbage seeds in late summer. The weather was starting to cool down, but I took a chance and sowed the seeds anyway. To my surprise, they germinated and grew into healthy seedlings. Eventually, I had a successful cabbage harvest later in the season.
When sowing cabbage seeds in late summer or early fall, it is crucial to provide them with the optimal growing conditions. Here are a few tips to ensure successful germination and growth:
1. Soil Preparation: Prepare the soil by removing any weeds or debris and loosening it with a garden fork or tiller. Incorporate organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to improve soil fertility and drainage.
2. Seedbed Preparation: Create a seedbed by raking the soil to create a fine, level surface. This will provide a good base for sowing the cabbage seeds.
3. Sowing Technique: Sow the cabbage seeds directly into the prepared seedbed, following the recommended spacing provided on the seed packet. It is crucial to sow the seeds at the correct depth, usually around ¼ to ½ inch (6-12 mm) deep.
4. Watering: After sowing the seeds, water the seedbed thoroughly to ensure good seed-to-soil contact. Keep the soil evenly moist throughout the germination and seedling stage. Be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to rotting.
5. Protection: In cooler weather, consider using row covers or cloches to provide additional warmth and protect the young seedlings from frost. This will help extend the growing season and promote healthier growth.
6. Care and Maintenance: Once the seedlings have emerged, thin them to the recommended spacing to ensure adequate airflow and prevent overcrowding. Regularly monitor for pests and diseases, and take appropriate measures to control them.
7. Harvesting: Cabbage typically takes around 70-100 days to mature, depending on the variety. Harvest the heads when they reach the desired size and firmness. Cut the heads off at the base, leaving a few outer leaves intact to protect the inner leaves during storage.
It is never too late to start cabbage seeds, as long as you wait until midsummer and provide the optimal growing conditions. By sowing cabbage seeds in late summer or early fall, you can still enjoy a bountiful harvest later in the season. So, don’t hesitate to give it a try and experience the joy of growing your own cabbage.
