How to Grow and Harvest Cabbage – to make the most of your crop
Depending on the variety and the climate, cabbage can be grown all year round. Yet some say the winter crop is the best for flavour and quality, which makes now a great time to think about adding them to your garden bed!
Know your Cabbage
They like space
Most of the cabbage varieties grow into large plants, so spacing is essential for the bulk feeders; for large varieties spaces up to 75cm are required.
Family Affair
Cabbage belongs to the brassica family and is closely related to broccoli, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts. It’s a leafy green, red or white plant.
They’re nutritious
Basically a fat-free food, cabbages are a good source of fibre and potassium (good for heart health) and also provide folate, calcium, iron and vitamins A, C and K.
Tips for Growing your own Cabbage
Planting
Cabbages like good drainage and well-dug soil and grow best in the cooler months. Consider adding compost or some lime before planting. Look at how much space your variety ideally requires.
Watering
Unless you live in an area that gets regular rain, you’ll have to water them, perhaps two to three times a week. If using a hose, use a low-pressure one that doesn’t damage the surrounding soil.
Harvesting
Harvest after the head becomes firm and is a decent size (and before it splits). Harvesting depends on your variety and how big you want them. Use a sharp knife to cut the head from the base.
Store
Cabbages can be stored in the fridge in a perforated plastic bag, vege bag or beeswax wrap in the crisper. For longer storage, consider dehydrating, freezing or canning them.
Cooking with Cabbage Recipes
Chargrilled Chicken with Roasted Cabbage Wedges & Lime Hazelnut Dressing
This healthy feast is sure to leave you feeling satisfied. The cabbage in this recipe is brushed with olive oil and roast a fabulous way to cook cabbage and a great, easy side to any protein for a healthy dinner solution.
Recipe Here
Healthy Cabbage Rolls
The humble cabbage may not be much to look at, but it is a versatile vegetable ideal for hearty, warming meals throughout the cooler months. Here it is used as a casing for delicious bundles of flavour.
Recipe Here
Smoked Fish and Cabbage Soup with Potato Scones
A Scottish speciality, this recipe is traditionally served as a starter. But with its hearty mix of potatoes, smoked cod and shredded cabbage, makes a perfect mid-week meal.
Recipe Here
Japanese Okonomiyaki Fritters
Step outside the box with your next dinner and try these delicious Japanese fritters topped with tender pieces of beef.
Recipe Here
Duck Noodle Salad with White Miso Dressing
A delightful duck salad perfect for lunch or dinner.
Recipe Here
Polenta and Seed Crumbed Chicken Schnitzel with Shaved Cabbage Slaw
Put a twist on your next crumbed chicken dish and try this polenta and seed
version served with a fresh shaved cabbage slaw.
Recipe Here
Glazed Venison Roast with Shredded Slaw
This gorgeous salad is the perfect accompaniment to a hearty venison roast.
Recipe Here
