Cabbage

Description

Climate Requirements:

• Temperature: 15–25°C is ideal.

• Frost Tolerance: Cabbage is frost-tolerant; mild frost enhances flavor.

• Sunlight: Requires full sun for optimal growth.

Soil Requirements:

• Type: Well-drained loamy or clay-loam soils.

• pH: 6.0 to 6.5.

• Fertility: High organic matter preferred; add compost or well-rotted manure.

Land Preparation:

• Plow 2–3 times to get fine tilth.

• Incorporate 20–25 tons/ha of FYM (Farm Yard Manure).

• Form ridges and furrows or raised beds for planting.

Irrigation:

• Frequency: Every 7–10 days depending on soil type and climate.

• Avoid water stagnation and water stress at head formation stage.

Fertilizer Management:

• Basal Dose: Apply full P & K and half N at transplanting.

• Top Dressing: Remaining N in two splits — 30 & 45 days after transplanting.

• Typical dose: 100:125:125 kg/ha (N:P:K)

Pest & Disease Management:

• Common Pests:

  • Diamondback moth

  • Cabbage butterfly

  • Aphids

• Diseases:

  • Black rot

  • Club root

  • Downy mildew

• Management: Use neem-based sprays, maintain field hygiene, rotate crops, and use resistant varieties.

Harvesting:

• Time: 70–120 days after transplanting, depending on the variety.

• Signs: Head is firm and compact.

• Yield:

  • Open-pollinated: 25–30 tons/ha

  • Hybrids: 40–60 tons/ha