Cabbage is a leafy green vegetable that is packed with nutrients and vitamins. It comes in different varieties, including Napa cabbage and Chinese cabbage. Growing cabbage in pots is easy and can save you some space if you have a small garden or no garden at all. In this article, we will discuss how to grow Napa cabbage and Chinese cabbage in pots.
The Right Pot and Soil
When growing cabbage, you should start with the right pot and soil. Choose a pot that is at least 12 inches deep and 12 inches wide. The pot should be made of a material that can withstand outdoor conditions. Terra cotta, plastic, and glazed ceramic pots are all great choices.
The soil should be rich in organic matter and well-draining. You can either buy potting soil or make your own by mixing compost, garden soil, and sand in equal parts.
Planting Seeds
Before planting, moisten the soil and create small holes ¼ inch deep. Space the seeds one inch apart and cover them with soil. Keep the soil moist, and the seeds will germinate in 5-10 days.
Planting Seedlings
If you’re using seedlings, plant them at the same depth they are in their containers. Firm the soil around the plant and water well.
Spacing and Sunlight
When planting, make sure you leave enough space between the plants. Napa cabbage needs at least six inches between plants, while Chinese cabbage needs 12-18 inches. Cabbage plants do best with six hours of sunlight, so place your pot in a sunny area.
Watering and Fertilizing
Water your cabbage regularly and keep the soil moist. Cabbage needs an inch of water per week. You can add fertilizer to the soil to enhance the growth. Use a balanced fertilizer with an equal amount of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Harvesting
Napa cabbage takes about 68-85 days from seed to maturity, while Chinese cabbage takes about 75 days. You can start harvesting Napa cabbage when it reaches six to eight inches in height. Chinese cabbage should be harvested when the head is firm and the leaves are tightly wrapped.
Concluding Thoughts
Growing Napa cabbage and Chinese cabbage in pots is easy and requires minimal space. You can use the same tips and techniques when growing other types of cabbage as well. Just remember to use the right pot and soil, provide enough sunlight, and water and fertilize regularly.
FAQs
1. Can you grow cabbage in pots?
Yes, cabbage can be grown in pots. Choose a pot that is at least 12 inches deep and wide and has good drainage.
2. How deep should a pot be to grow cabbage?
A pot that is at least 12 inches deep is ideal for growing cabbage.
3. How much sunlight does cabbage need?
Cabbage needs at least six hours of sunlight per day.
4. How often should I water cabbage plants?
Cabbage needs about an inch of water per week. Water regularly and keep the soil moist.
5. How can I tell when my cabbage is ready to be harvested?
Napa cabbage is ready to be harvested when it reaches six to eight inches in height. Chinese cabbage should be picked when the head is firm and leaves are tightly wrapped.
