When to Plant Coal?

When to plant cabbage? Everything you need to know

Cabbages are real powerhouses in the vegetable garden. Not only are they nutritious and versatile, but some varieties can even withstand a bit of winter damage. Want to get started and grow cabbage yourself? Then it's important to choose the right time and method. In this article, we'll explain in plain language when the best time to plant cabbages is, how to do it in the ground and in a greenhouse, and which varieties thrive where.

What is coal anyway?

We often talk about "cabbages" as if they were one thing, but it actually refers to an entire family of vegetables. Think of white cabbage, red cabbage, Savoy cabbage, pointed cabbage, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, and kale. Although they belong to the same plant group – the Brassicaceae – the planting times and care requirements can sometimes differ slightly. Therefore, it's helpful to consider the ideal timing and conditions for each variety.

When to plant cabbage in open ground?

Most cabbages are planted outdoors from March through July, depending on the variety. White cabbage, red cabbage, pointed cabbage, and Savoy cabbage, for example, are best planted from April to June. Winter-hardy varieties like kale can be planted outdoors as early as March, especially if the soil isn't too wet or frozen.

For planting in the open ground, choose a partly cloudy but dry day. Avoid windy or overly sunny days, especially for young plants. A wet day is also acceptable, as long as the soil isn't soaking wet, as this promotes root rot. For early plantings, a fleece or frost protection is recommended.

Brussels sprouts and cauliflower are generally planted from late April to July. It's important for Brussels sprouts to have a long growing season so you can harvest them in the fall and winter. You can find more tips on when to plant Brussels sprouts in our other guide.

When to plant cabbage in a greenhouse?

In a greenhouse, you can often start earlier, usually as early as February or early March. This can be done by starting seedlings indoors or transplanting them directly into the greenhouse once the temperature stays above 10°C. However, keep in mind that the actual planting time may depend on the amount of daylight available.

Use the greenhouse primarily to strengthen young plants before moving them outside. This way, they'll get a better start without damage from wind or frost. Remember to ventilate regularly, as cabbages don't like a humid environment without air circulation. If you're planning to plant cauliflower in a greenhouse, be sure to check out our blog post about when to plant cauliflower .

Which cabbages to plant when?

• White and red cabbage: in open ground from April, in greenhouse from March
• Kale: sow outdoors from March or indoors from February
• Pointed cabbage and Savoy cabbage: plant outdoors from April to June
• Cauliflower and broccoli: from May to July (short growing period)
• Brussels sprouts: sow in April, plant out around June-July

Are you specifically interested in cauliflower? Then find out when to plant cauliflower for a successful harvest.

Tips for successful cultivation

Good preparation is half the battle. Start by turning the soil and improving its structure with compost. It's best to choose a spot where no cabbages were grown the previous year to avoid diseases. A crop rotation plan is therefore a must.

Use sturdy seed pots to start your seedlings. You can find high-quality seed pots in our webshop. Then, water them steadily, but avoid making the soil too soggy. Cabbages prefer nutrient-rich, well-drained soil. You can also add some perlite for an airy soil.

What time of day is best?

A cloudy morning or mild evening is ideal for planting cabbages. The sun is less intense then, giving the roots time to adjust before the heat hits. Avoid midday sun at all costs, as it can scorch or dry out young plants.

If it's raining lightly and the soil isn't too wet, that's secretly a perfect time. The raindrops keep the leaves moist, and the roots get immediate water for their new home.

Which coals are suitable for beginners?

Pointed cabbage and kale are often the easiest to start with. They're less finicky than cauliflower or Brussels sprouts. Winter cabbages like Savoy cabbage are also quite forgiving.

Want to start small with an easy-to-care-for plant? Then check out our collection of easy-to-grow indoor houseplants for beginners , such as the ZZ plant or Sansevieria . They require slightly less preparation than a vegetable garden.

Common problems with coal

Cabbage root flies, snails, and caterpillars can quickly make your plants their favorite food. Therefore, use netting in time when planting out. Brassicas like cabbages can also be susceptible to clubroot or other soil-borne diseases if you always plant them in the same spot.

Also be careful with overwatering. Root rot is a silent killer. Water less often and more deeply rather than a little every day. Not sure about your potting soil mix? We have potting soil tailored to your plants in our range.

Ready to plant?

Hopefully, you're now fully aware of when to plant cabbages. From early sowing in the greenhouse to robust plants outdoors in May, cabbages offer a lot of return if you approach them correctly.

Are you eager to try even more vegetable garden projects? Find out when to plant pumpkins , potatoes , or leeks . This way, you can turn your garden into a true harvest paradise!

Or bring a tropical touch into your home while you wait for your first cabbage harvest. How about a Monstera Deliciosa or a Banana plant ? Order them easily from De Plantrekkers and have them delivered to your door. Happy planting!