Growing Cabbage in Your Survival Garden
Cabbage is a nutrient-packed, hardy vegetable perfect for survival gardens. Its long storage life, high vitamin content, and cold tolerance make it an essential crop for any prepper or self-sufficient gardener. Here’s how to grow cabbage successfully:
Why Grow Cabbage in a Survival Garden?
➡ Nutrient Powerhouse: Rich in vitamins C and K, plus fiber.
➡ Storage Friendly: Lasts months when stored properly.
➡ Cold-Hardy: Thrives in cooler temperatures.
➡ Versatile Crop: Use it in soups, stews, ferments, and fresh salads.
Choosing the Right Cabbage Variety
➡ Green Cabbage: Classic, round heads, great for storage.
➡ Red Cabbage: Vibrant, nutrient-rich, and visually striking.
➡ Savoy Cabbage: Wrinkled leaves, mild flavor, ideal for cooking.
➡ Chinese Cabbage (Napa): Perfect for stir-fries and fermentation.
How to Grow Cabbage
1. Select the Planting Site:
➡ Choose a spot with full sun (at least 6 hours/day).
➡ Ensure well-draining soil rich in organic matter.
➡ pH Range: Cabbage prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil (6.0-7.5).
2. Planting:
➡ Start Seeds Indoors: Begin seeds 6-8 weeks before the last frost.
➡ Transplant Outdoors: When seedlings are 4-6 weeks old and soil is workable.
➡ Spacing: Plant seedlings 12-18 inches apart, with 24-36 inches between rows.
3. Watering & Care:
➡ Consistent Moisture: Water regularly (about 1-2 inches per week).
➡ Mulch: Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
➡ Fertilize: Use a nitrogen-rich fertilizer every 3-4 weeks during the growing season.
4. Pest & Disease Control:
➡ Cabbage Worms & Aphids: Use row covers or companion plant with dill, thyme, or marigolds.
➡ Fungal Issues: Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
5. Harvesting:
➡ When to Harvest: Heads are ready when they’re firm and reach the expected size.
➡ How to Harvest: Use a sharp knife to cut heads at the base. Leave outer leaves and roots for potential regrowth.
Storage Tips for Cabbage
➡ Cool, Dark, and Dry: Store in a root cellar or refrigerator.
➡ Wrap Loosely: Use breathable materials like paper or cloth.
➡ Ferment or Freeze: Consider fermenting or freezing for long-term preservation.
Pro Survival Garden Tips
➡ Succession Planting: Stagger planting for continuous harvests.
➡ Intercropping: Plant fast-growing crops like radishes between cabbages.
➡ Seed Saving: Allow one or two plants to flower and collect seeds for next season.
By following these steps, you can grow a robust cabbage crop, ensuring your survival garden stays productive and your pantry well-stocked. Happy planting!
