Essential Information
Cabbage , a versatile andhighly nourishing vegetable , is widely cultivated in South Africa . Whether you ’re aseasoned gardeneror a beginner partisan , this comprehensive guide will empower you with the knowledge and techniques to grow expand kale industrial plant in the South African clime .
Site Selection and Soil Preparation
The idealistic location forcabbage cultivationis a well - drained , sunny topographic point with prolific soil . The soil should be rich inorganic matterand have apH levelbetween 6.0 and 6.8 . If necessary , amend the dirt with compost or manure to meliorate its fertility and drainage .
Seed Selection and Sowing
Choose high - caliber cabbage seeds that are worthy for theSouth African clime . Sow the seed indoors 6 - 8 workweek before the lastfrost date . Sow the seeded player thinly , about 1/4 in abstruse , and keep the soil moist .
Transplanting and Spacing
Once the seedling have developed their first lay oftrue leaves , they can betransplanted outdoors . outer space the plant life 12 - 18 inches apart in rows that are 24 - 36 inches apart . Water theplants deeplyafter transplanting .
Watering and Fertilizing
Cabbage plants require regular watering , especially during red-hot , teetotal weather . Water deeply and infrequently , allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings . fertilise the plants every 4 - 6 weeks with a balanced fertiliser .
Pest and Disease Management
kale plant are susceptible to a range of pests and diseases , including aphids , cultivated cabbage loopers , and clubroot . Implement preventive standard such as crop rotation , companion planting , and using organic pest control method acting to minimize infestations .
Harvesting and Storage
Cabbage heads are quick to harvest when they are steady and have reached theirdesired size . Cut the head from the plant with a sharp tongue , provide a few column inch ofstem attached . stock thecabbage headsin a cool , humid shoes for up to 2 months .
Additional Tips for Successful Cabbage Cultivation in South Africa
Common Questions and Answers
1 . What is the best clip togrow cabbagein South Africa?Cabbage can be grow throughout the year inSouth Africa , but the honorable meter to plant is in spring or early summer.2 . How often should I irrigate dinero plants?Water cabbage plant deeply and infrequently , allow the filth to dry out slimly between waterings.3 . What are the mostcommon peststhat strike cabbage plants?Common pests thataffect lucre plant include aphids , lolly loopers , and cabbage white butterflies.4 . How can Iprevent clubroot diseasein cabbage plants?Clubroot disease can be prevent byplanting cabbagein well - enfeeble dirt and avoiding excessive watering.5 . How long does it take for cabbage to mature?Cabbage heads typically grow 60 - 90 days after transplant .