Cabbage: Early Jersey Wakefield Seeds

Sowing: Begin sowing your Early Jersey Wakefield cabbage seeds indoors 8-12 weeks prior to the final spring frost, placing them in nutrient-rich soil at a depth of 1.27 centimeters and spacing them 5.08 centimeters apart. To ensure timely maturity before the onset of summer heat, transplant the seedlings approximately 4 weeks before the expected last frost date, spacing them 30.48-46 centimeters apart in rows spaced 91.44-122 centimeters apart. For a fall harvest, sow seeds directly or transplant seedlings in the middle of summer. Opt for companion planting with aromatic herbs or potatoes while avoiding tomatoes or pole beans to deter pests like the white cabbage moth.

Growing: Shield young plants from harsh frosts by providing cover. Maintain even soil moisture and regulate soil temperature by mulching around the plants, preventing cabbage splitting. Early Jersey Wakefield cabbage exhibits resistance to splitting and yellowing. Sowing: Start your Early Jersey Wakefield cabbage seeds inside 8-12 weeks before the last spring frost, planting them in rich soil 1/2 inch deep and 5.08 centimeters apart. Because the first crop of cabbage should mature before the heat of summer, plant your seedlings about 4 weeks before the last expected frost; set them 12-18" apart in rows 3-4' apart, burying the stems about halfway up. For a fall crop, direct sow or transplant seedlings in midsummer. For companion planting benefits, plant cabbage with aromatic herbs or potatoes; avoid planting them with tomatoes or pole beans. Herbs such as thyme, peppermint, sage, and rosemary will repel the destructive white cabbage moth.

Growing: If hard frosts come, cover the young plants. Mulch around them to regulate soil temperature, and keep the soil moisture even to prevent the cabbages from splitting. Early Jersey Wakefield does resist splitting and yellowing.

Harvest cabbages when they feel firm to the touch and reach an adequate size. Smaller cabbages tend to be more tender, while larger ones from fall growth store well over the winter months.

Mulch at least six different cabbage plants in late fall to ensure genetic diversity. In colder climates, it may be necessary to dig up entire plants for winter storage, maintaining them in moist sand at approximately 4.44 degrees Celsius. Replant them 4-6 weeks before the final spring frost. For seed harvesting, if the heads remain firm, make a deep X incision at the top to facilitate stem removal. The stems will grow to about 122-152.4 centimeters tall, producing numerous four-petaled yellow flowers. Allow the flowers to mature; upon pod formation, collect and air-dry them. Extract the Early Jersey Wakefield cabbage seeds from the pods and store them in a dry, cool location for up to five years.

Planting Methods: Indoor, Outdoor

Blooming Season: Late Spring or Late Summer

Planting Season: Early Spring or Early Summer

Latin Name/USDA Zones: Brassica oleracea var. capitata/ 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Sunlight Required/Height: Full Sun/ 30 to 45 centimeters

Shelf Life After Test Date: It has a good shelf life after the test date. Whole heads can last weeks to months when stored in a cool, dry place, preferably in the refrigerator. Cut or shredded cabbage should be consumed within a week, stored in sealed containers. Consider freezing excess cabbage for longer preservation, ensuring to check for signs of spoilage like off smells or sliminess before consumption. Adhering to storage guidelines and checking packaging dates enhances the cabbage's longevity.

Seed Type: Open Pollinated

Soil Type: Loam Soil