If you want to grow cabbage in Florida, timing is everything. Knowing exactly when to plant cabbage in Florida is the first and most important step to a successful harvest. Our warm climate is a double-edged sword; it allows for year-round gardening in some ways, but cabbage prefers the cooler months. Get your timing right, and you’ll be rewarded with crisp, delicious heads.
This guide will walk you through the simple steps to grow cabbage perfectly suited to Florida’s unique conditions. We’ll cover the best planting dates, recommended varieties, and how to care for your plants from seed to harvest.
When to Plant Cabbage in Florida
Florida is divided into three main planting zones: North, Central, and South. This split is crucial because our state’s length creates very different growing conditions. Cabbage is a cool-season crop, meaning it grows best in the fall, winter, and early spring. It bolts (goes to seed) and turns bitter when the heat of summer arrives.
Here’s the simple breakdown for each region:
* North Florida: Plant from August to February. The ideal window is often late summer for a fall harvest or a late winter planting for a spring harvest.
* Central Florida: Plant from September to January. This is perhaps the easiest region for cabbage, with a long, mild cool season.
* South Florida: Plant from October to December. Your window is shorter here, so opting for faster-maturing varieties is a smart move.
A great rule of thumb is to time your planting so that the heads mature during the coolest months. Use the “days to maturity” on your seed packet and count backwards from your area’s typical last frost date (for spring planting) or from the start of intense heat.
Choosing the Right Cabbage Variety for Florida
Not all cabbages are created equal, especially for our heat and humidity. You’ll want varieties that are bolt-resistant and can handle our climate’s quirks. Here are some top performers:
* ‘Cheers’: A green hybrid known for its solid, round heads and excellent disease resistance.
* ‘Charleston Wakefield’: An heirloom pointed cabbage that does very well in the South and matures relatively quickly.
* ‘Red Acre’: A stunning purple cabbage that holds its color well and is reliable for Florida gardens.
* ‘Farao’: A fast-maturing green cabbage with a sweet flavor, great for tighter planting schedules in South Florida.
* ‘Tropicana’: As the name suggests, bred specifically for warmer climates with good heat tolerance.
You can start cabbage from seeds or buy transplants from your local nursery. Starting from seeds gives you more variety choices, but using transplants gets a head start, which is especially helpful if your planting window is short.
Step-by-Step Planting Guide
Once you have your timing and seeds, follow these steps.
1. Preparing Your Garden Bed
Cabbage needs full sun—at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. The soil is key. Florida’s sandy soil doesn’t hold nutrients or water well, so you must amend it.
* Work in several inches of compost or well-rotted manure.
* Mix in a balanced, slow-release organic fertilizer according to package directions.
* Ensure the planting area has good drainage. Raised beds are an excellent option in Florida.
2. Planting Seeds or Transplants
For seeds:
Sow seeds about ¼ to ½ inch deep. If starting indoors, do so 6-8 weeks before your planned transplant date. Harden off seedlings gradually before putting them in the garden.
For transplants:
Space plants 12 to 18 inches apart in rows that are 2 to 3 feet apart. Cabbage needs room for it’s leaves to spread out. Plant them at the same depth they were growing in their container. Water them in thoroughly right after planting to settle the soil.
Caring for Your Cabbage Plants
Consistent care is simple but non-negotiable for forming tight, solid heads.
Watering and Feeding
Cabbage is about 90% water, so consistent moisture is vital. Water deeply at the base of the plants 1-2 times per week, depending on rainfall. Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases. Using a soaker hose or drip irrigation is best.
Feed your plants with a nitrogen-rich fertilizer about 3 weeks after transplanting and again when heads begin to form. This supports all that leafy growth.
Managing Pests and Diseases
Florida’s warm weather unfortunately brings pests. Keep a close eye out for:
Cabbage Loopers & Imported Cabbageworms: These green caterpillars are the most common issue. Handpick them or use an organic spray containing Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt).
* Aphids: Blast them off with a strong jet of water or use insecticidal soap.
* Diseases: Like black rot or downy mildew. Prevent them by rotating your crops each year (don’t plant cabbage where you grew it or other brassicas last season), ensuring good air flow, and avoiding wet leaves.
Floating row covers placed over the plants right after transplanting can physically block many pests from ever reaching your cabbage.
Harvesting and Storing Your Cabbage
Your cabbage is ready when the head feels firm and solid when you gently squeeze it. Use a sharp knife to cut the head from the base of the plant. Try to harvest in the morning when they are most crisp.
If you’ve timed it right, you can often harvest before the peak summer heat. After harvesting, you can remove the entire plant to make room for a warm-season crop. Cabbage stores well in the refrigerator for several weeks. You can also it slice and freeze it for use in cooked dishes later.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you grow cabbage in Florida in the summer?
It is not recommended. Summer heat causes cabbage to bolt, become bitter, and attracts more pests. It’s best to stick to the cool-season windows.
What is the best month to plant cabbage in Central Florida?
October and November are ideal months for planting in Central Florida, allowing for growth during the cool fall and winter.
How long does cabbage take to grow in Florida?
This depends on the variety, but most cabbages take between 70 to 100 days from transplant to harvest. Check your seed packet for the specific “days to maturity.”
Can I plant cabbage from scraps in Florida?
While you can regrow leaves from a cabbage base in water, it will not produce a new solid head. For a full harvest, you need to grow from seed or transplant.
What should I plant next after harvesting cabbage?
Great options for a summer rotation in that same bed include heat-loving crops like sweet potatoes, southern peas, or Malabar spinach.
Growing cabbage in Florida is very rewarding when you respect the calendar. By choosing the right variety and providing consistent care, you can enjoy homegrown cabbage that’s far superior to anything from the store. Remember, the secret is all in starting at the correct time for your specific part of the state. Your garden is ready for a fantastic cool-season crop.