Guidance on Cabbage Harvesting: Timing and Storage Suggestions

Ready to reap the rewards of your spring vegetable garden? You've been growing cabbages like a boss, and now it's time to harvest. But, how do you tell when the cabbage's ready for the pickin'?

Brassica oleracea, a.k.a. cabbage, is an easy crop to grow, even for beginners. And many types of cabbage, such as red cabbage and Savoy, follow the same patterns for planting and harvesting. As a cabbage connoisseur, you're all set to transform your harvest into scrumptious slaws, soups, and stir-fries. Let's go through the nitty-gritty of cabbage harvesting, storing, and enjoyin'.

Harvest time usually rolls around between 60 and 90 days after planting. This means your bounty will be coming of age in late summer if you planted in early spring. You'll know your cabbage is ready when the head of the plant is firm and substantial. Give the head a gentle squeeze with your fingertips. If it has even the slightest bit of give, leave it in the ground a wee bit longer. Once it's rock-hard and the leaves are curled in tightly, you're good to go. For the best taste and texture, harvest during the cooler hours of the day, ideally in the morning. Avoid leaving harvested cabbages in the sunlight for any extended periods.

No need to break the bank on fancy cabbage-specific knives. A large, sharp knife and some robust gardening gloves will do the trick. You're now armed with everything you need to make the most of your harvest.

Now, let's take a peek at the stages of cabbage growth.

After you've started seeds or planted transplants, seeds will begin to germinate underground, developing roots and transforming into a healthy little plant.
Soon, dark green leaves will pop up out of the soil and continue to multiply. These young leaves will eventually lead to a stage known as cupping. As leaves come together to form the classic cabbage head we all know and love.
When the head of your cabbage has become firm, it's ready to be harvested. Be patient and wait until the head is resilient to the point that you can't push in on it with your finger.
In case you leave your cabbage in the ground too long, it may split, becoming too hard to consume in some areas. In this situation, cut awwway the entire plant, along with the outer leaves, inedible parts, and all. You can still salvage the rest of the good stuff.

After two to six months (depending on whether you started with seeds or transplants), your cabbage will be ready for harvest and consumption. Mature heads are large, solid to the touch, and surrounded by large outer leaves.

To harvest your cabbage, deploy a sharp knife to cut the bottom of the cabbage head. If you'd like your cabbage plant to continue growing, leave the loose outer leaves and snag only the head. If you've reached the end of the growing season, position your knife at the base of the plant, just above the mulch, and cut the stem completely.

If you'd prefer for your cabbage to keep chugging along, don't harvest the whole head. Instead, slice the inner head of cabbage while leaving the outer leaves intact for growth. Take care to make the cut at the lowest point possible for the best results. If you're through growing for the season, use a sharp knife to prune the entire plant, cabbage head, outer leaves, and all.

You might be surprised to learn that you could potentially continue to harvest additional heads from the very same cabbage plant! Several smaller heads of cabbage often sprout in place of the original cutting. Expect around three or four heads, but some plants may produce up to six. These heads will be smaller, lighter in color, and super tender.

Cabbage thrives in cool, humid environments. The best way to store them is in a root cellar, but unfortunately, most urban dwellings are sans 'cellars. If you don't have a cellar, the refrigerator comes in as the runner-up. Avoid washing your cabbage before sticking it in the fridge – those soggy, limp leaves just ain't fun. Instead, wrap the head in damp paper towels, securely seal it in a large plastic bag, and store it in the crisper section of the fridge.

Due to its bolder flavor, it's recommended to savor your cabbage fresh as opposed to canning it. That said, there are some fantastic ways to preserve cabbage if you choose to do so. Sauerkraut and kimchi are fantastic additions to a plethora of dishes.

Cabbage is a versatile ingredient that's both nourishing and tasty. Kick back, relax, and savor some of our delectable cabbage recipes, like Schnitzel Over Buttered Spaetzle with Sweet and Sour Cabbage, Cabbage and Carrot Slaw with Almond Butter Vinaigrette, and Pork Cabbage Rolls.

Need to know more about when cabbage is ripe or whether it can regrow after harvest? Check out our FAQ section below:

How do you know when cabbage is ready to pick? Your cabbage is ready to harvest when the central head is firm to the touch and surrounded by large outer leaves.

Does cabbage grow back after you pick it? Yes! If harvested correctly, cabbage can grow between three and six additional heads in the same spot as the original cutting.

How long does it take for cabbage to grow? Cabbage takes between two and six months to become fully mature.

How do you tell if cabbage is ripe? Touch the central head of your lettuce plant. If it is crisp and firm to the touch, it's ready to come out of the ground.

How do you harvest cabbage without damaging the plant? Take a very sharp knife to the base of the central cabbage head, taking care not to harm any of the outer leaves. Cut only the head, not the leaves, and the plant should continue to grow as normal.

What are some of the uses for cabbage? Cabbage is incredibly versatile. Stew it, use it for lettuce wraps, or enjoy it in a crunchy, homemade slaw.

Inspired to start cultivating and reaping your very own cabbage (and other produce) in your home garden? Head to our blog for more helpful gardening tips and tricks.

After harvesting your ripe cabbage, explore the culinary possibilities by transforming your cabbage into delicious slaws, soups, and stir-fries, making a delightful addition to your food-and-drink lifestyle.
With your newfound gardening skills, expand your gardening horizons beyond cabbage and delve into various lettuce, squash, and tomato recipes, enhancing your cooking repertoire and home-and-garden lifestyle.
As a lifestyle enthusiast, why not pair your homemade cabbage dishes with stunning home-decor decorations and accessories, creating an inviting ambiance for delightful dining experiences that enrich your personal lifestyle.