Crop Rotation Group
Brassicas (Cabbage family)
Soil
Rich, deep soil, firm with plenty of well rotted compost dug in.
Position
Full sun.
Frost tolerant
Yes, improves with frost.
Feeding
Mix a high-nitrogen compost into the soil before planting.
Spacing
Single Plants: 60cm (1' 11") each way (minimum)
Rows: 60cm (1' 11") with 60cm (1' 11") row gap (minimum)
Sow and Plant
Sow early or mid spring in pots or protected seed bed. Plant out when thumb height.
Our Garden Planner can produce a personalised calendar of when to sow, plant and harvest for your area.
Notes
Surround stem with a 10cm (4 inch) mat with a slit cut into it for the stem to prevent cabbage root fly from destroying the roots. Use fine mesh or fleece over the summer to prevent butterflies laying eggs on the underside of leaves - caterpillars can destroy these plants. Protect against birds which can damage the young seedlings and overwintering crops. May need supportive canes during the winter.
Harvesting
Harvest from the bottom of the plant upward, twisting off sprouts that are larger than a marble. Removing nearby leaves helps to make room for growing sprouts.