How to Grow Cabbage in Oklahoma

Growing cabbage in Oklahoma can be a rewarding experience for both novice and experienced gardeners. Given the state’s unique climate and soil conditions, understanding how to cultivate this nutritious vegetable will ensure a bountiful harvest. This article provides a comprehensive guide on growing cabbage in Oklahoma, from selecting the right variety to harvesting and storing your produce.

Understanding Cabbage Varieties

Before planting, it’s essential to know that there are several varieties of cabbage, each suited for different growing conditions:

• Green Cabbage: The most common type; it has a smooth, tightly packed head.
• Red Cabbage: Known for its vibrant color and slightly peppery flavor.
• Savoy Cabbage: Characterized by its crinkled leaves and tender texture, making it ideal for salads.
• Napa Cabbage: A milder variety with elongated heads, popular in Asian cuisine.

In Oklahoma, green cabbage is typically grown due to its adaptability to the climate. However, experimenting with red or savoy varieties can also yield great results.

Ideal Growing Conditions

Climate

Oklahoma’s climate features hot summers and cold winters, which play a significant role in cabbage cultivation. Cabbage thrives in cooler temperatures, ideally between 60°F to 70°F (15°C to 21°C). In Oklahoma, the best planting times are:

• Spring Crop: Start seeds indoors in late winter (January to February) and transplant them outside in early spring (March).
• Fall Crop: Begin seeds indoors by mid-summer (June to July) and transplant outdoors by late July or early August.

Soil Preparation

Cabbage prefers well-drained, nutrient-rich soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5. Here’s how to prepare your soil:

1. Testing Soil: Conduct a soil test to determine pH levels and nutrient content. This can be done through local agricultural extension services.
2. Amending Soil: Based on test results, amend the soil with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure.
3. Tilling: Till the soil to a depth of at least 12 inches to aerate it and mix in amendments.

Sunlight

Cabbage plants require full sun for optimal growth. Aim for at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. If your garden has partial shade, consider planting your cabbages in areas that receive the most sunlight throughout the day.

Planting Cabbage

Seed Starting Indoors

Starting seeds indoors gives you a head start on the growing season:

1. Use seed trays or small pots filled with seed-starting mix.
2. Sow seeds about ¼ inch deep, keeping them moist but not waterlogged.
3. Place trays in a sunny location or under grow lights until seedlings are ready for transplanting.

Transplanting Seedlings

Once seedlings have developed two sets of true leaves (approximately 4-6 weeks after sowing), it’s time to transplant:

1. Harden off seedlings by placing them outdoors for a few hours each day over a week to acclimatize them.
2. Prepare your garden bed by creating rows spaced 18-24 inches apart.
3. Plant seedlings about 12-18 inches apart within rows.

Direct Seeding

If you prefer direct seeding instead of starting indoors:

1. Wait until the soil temperature reaches at least 45°F (7°C).
2. Sow seeds directly into prepared garden beds at the same depth and spacing as described for transplants.

Watering Needs

Cabbage has significant water requirements, especially during dry spells:

1. Consistent Moisture: Keep the soil consistently moist but not saturated. Aim for about 1 inch of water per week.
2. Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Fertilizing Cabbage

Cabbage is a heavy feeder, requiring ample nutrients throughout its growth cycle:

1. Starter Fertilizer: Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting time.
2. Mid-Season Boost: Side-dress with nitrogen-rich fertilizer when plants are about halfway through their growth cycle or when leaves appear yellowish.

Pest and Disease Management

Being vigilant about pests and diseases will help ensure healthy cabbage plants:

Common Pests

• Aphids: Small insects that suck sap from leaves; treat them with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Cabbage Worms: Larvae that chew holes in leaves; hand-pick or use row covers to protect young plants.
• Cutworms: These pests cut seedlings at the base; use collars made from cardboard around plants at planting time.

Diseases

• Downy Mildew: Fungal disease that appears as yellowish spots on leaves; prevent by ensuring good airflow and avoiding overhead watering.
• Black Rot: A bacterial disease causing yellow V-shaped lesions; practice crop rotation and remove infected plants immediately.

Harvesting Cabbage

Knowing when to harvest is crucial for obtaining the best flavor and texture from your cabbage:

1. Harvest when heads are firm and feel heavy for their size.
2. The ideal time for harvesting varies between varieties but generally falls between 70-100 days after transplanting.
3. Cut heads from the plant using a sharp knife, leaving some outer leaves intact to protect any developing side shoots.

Storing Cabbage

Cabbage can be stored for extended periods if handled correctly:

1. Store harvested cabbage heads in a cool location (ideally between 32°F and 40°F) with high humidity.
2. Remove any damaged outer leaves before storage.
3. Properly stored cabbage can last several weeks up to several months.

Conclusion

Growing cabbage in Oklahoma is an achievable endeavor with proper planning and care. By selecting the right variety, understanding ideal growing conditions, providing sufficient water and nutrients, managing pests effectively, and harvesting at the right time, you can enjoy fresh home-grown cabbage throughout your gardening season. Embrace this nutritious vegetable’s versatility—whether you enjoy it raw in salads or cooked in hearty dishes—knowing you’ve nurtured it from seedling to table!