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Cabbage Growing Guide: How to Prevent and Fix Splitting Heads
Introduction
Growing cabbage is a rewarding experience, but it can be frustrating when your cabbage heads split. Splitting heads are not only unsightly, but they can also reduce the storage life of your cabbage. In this guide, we’ll explore the causes of split cabbage heads and provide tips on how to prevent and fix this problem.
What Causes Cabbage Head Splitting?
Cabbage head splitting is caused by a combination of factors, including:
- Heavy rain after a period of dry weather: When the roots absorb excess moisture after a dry spell, the pressure from internal growth can cause the head to split.
- Fertilization late in the season: Fertilizing cabbage plants late in the growing season can lead to over-fertilization, which can weaken the cell walls and make the heads more susceptible to splitting.
- Early varieties: Early varieties of cabbage are more prone to splitting than late varieties.
- Root damage: Damage to the roots can reduce the plant’s ability to absorb moisture, which can also lead to splitting.
How to Prevent Split Cabbage Heads
Prevention is key when it comes to split cabbage heads. Here are some tips to help you prevent this problem:
- Water regularly: Keep the soil evenly moist throughout the growing season, especially during hot, dry weather. Cabbage needs about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week.
- Prune the roots: When the heads are moderately firm, prune off a few of the roots by cultivating close to the plants with a hoe. This will reduce the amount of moisture the plant can absorb and prevent splitting.
- Avoid late fertilization: Fertilize cabbage plants early in the growing season and avoid fertilizing after the heads begin to firm. Use a slow-release fertilizer to help keep the nutrient levels in the soil even and prevent over-fertilization.
- Harvest early varieties promptly: Harvest early varieties of cabbage as soon as the heads are firm to prevent splitting.
- Plant early: Plant cabbage early in the season so that it matures before warm temperatures set in. This can be done as early as four weeks before the last frost.
- Use mulch: An organic mulch can help the soil hold moisture and keep the roots cool, which can help prevent splitting.
How to Fix Split Cabbage Heads
If your cabbage heads do split, don’t panic. There are a few things you can do to fix the problem:
- Harvest the split head immediately: Split heads don’t store as long as solid heads, so harvest them as soon as possible.
- Use the split heads first: Split cabbage heads can still be eaten, but they should be used first because they will not store as well.
- Remove the damaged leaves: Remove any damaged or split leaves from the head.
- Store the cabbage in a cool, dry place: Split cabbage heads should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent further deterioration.
Conclusion
By following these tips, you can prevent and fix split cabbage heads and enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious, healthy cabbage.
