Cole Crops
Cabbage, Broccoli, Cauliflower
Cole crops are some of the very first vegetables that can be planted into our cold, wet spring soils, and so they are revered as an unofficial end to our long winters and a promise of the seasons to come.
They like cool temps and will bolt in warmer summer temperatures. Most cole crops are shallow rooted and require consistent watering as they do not like to dry out. 1” of water a week is ideal. They want rich, well amended soil, so till Coop Poop into the bed late fall in preparation for a spring crop. Continue feeding after planting with a tomato fertilizer like Tomato Maker, every 3-4 weeks. Spray with Captain Jack’s every 2 weeks to prevent common pests like flea beetle and cabbage worms.
They like cool temps and will bolt in warmer summer temperatures. Most cole crops are shallow rooted and require consistent watering as they do not like to dry out. 1” of water a week is ideal. They want rich, well amended soil, so till Coop Poop into the bed late fall in preparation for a spring crop. Continue feeding after planting with a tomato fertilizer like Tomato Maker, every 3-4 weeks. Spray with Captain Jack’s every 2 weeks to prevent common pests like flea beetle and cabbage worms.
Cabbage
Days: 80
Space: 18”
Start: Plants, seed
Red and green varieties are equally easy to grow.
Harvest when heads are still slightly firm. If heads start to loosen pick immediately before bolting.
Space: 18”
Start: Plants, seed
Red and green varieties are equally easy to grow.
Harvest when heads are still slightly firm. If heads start to loosen pick immediately before bolting.
Broccoli
Days: 60
Space: 12-18”
Start: Plants, seed
The edible portion is an immature flower head. Plant broccoli in spring and fall as hot weather causes it to bolt and turn bitter.
Harvest heads when buds are firm before they flower.
Space: 12-18”
Start: Plants, seed
The edible portion is an immature flower head. Plant broccoli in spring and fall as hot weather causes it to bolt and turn bitter.
Harvest heads when buds are firm before they flower.
Cauliflower
Days: 60
Space: 18”
Start: Plants, seed
For our short season, plant early varieties. Cauliflower does not tolerate periods of drought, so water as needed. To blanch (whiten) heads, cover developing heads with the large leaves and secure with a rubber band.
Harvest heads when buds are firm, before they flower.
Space: 18”
Start: Plants, seed
For our short season, plant early varieties. Cauliflower does not tolerate periods of drought, so water as needed. To blanch (whiten) heads, cover developing heads with the large leaves and secure with a rubber band.
Harvest heads when buds are firm, before they flower.