How to grow cabbage
पत्ता गोभी. When to sow it in each part of India, how deep, how far apart, what size of pot, and what to watch for.
When to sow
North and central plainsAugust to October
South and coastal IndiaJune and July, October and November
HillsMarch to June
Green months are the usual sowing or planting time. Dates shift by a few weeks from place to place.
How to sow and grow
- Method
- Raise seedlings in a tray or small pot and move them when they have 4 to 6 leaves, after about 4 to 5 weeks.
- Depth
- 0.5 cm
- Spacing
- 45 cm
- In a pot
- One plant in a pot 30 cm wide and deep
- Sprouts in
- 4 to 8 days
- Harvest
- 70 to 100 days after transplanting
- Sun
- Full sun: at least 6 hours a day
Tips from the garden
- Plant seedlings deep, up to the first leaves, and firm the soil well. A wobbly cabbage does not form a tight head.
- Feed with compost when the head starts to form, and keep the watering regular so the head does not split.
- Harvest when the head feels hard when pressed. Cut it with a few outer leaves attached.
What can go wrong
Caterpillars and aphids hide inside the outer leaves. Look for them early. A strong jet of water removes aphids.
Sown around the same time
New to growing from seed? Read how to sow seeds and the balcony and terrace garden guide.
Questions people ask
When is cabbage sown in north India?
In the plains of north and central India, the usual sowing or planting months for cabbage are August to October.
How long does cabbage take to grow?
Usually 70 to 100 days after transplanting.
Can cabbage be grown in a pot?
Yes. One plant in a pot 30 cm wide and deep.