Red Cabbage | Lal Gobhi | Exotic Vegetable Seeds for Home Garden | Farming | Open Pollinated | 100% Organic | Non Gmo | 90-100 Seeds

Red cabbage is a nutritious and colorful vegetable with tightly packed, reddish-purple leaves that add vibrancy to salads, slaws, and cooked dishes. Here's how to grow red cabbage from seeds:

1. Starting Indoors or Outdoors : Red cabbage can be started indoors or sown directly outdoors, depending on your preference and climate. If starting indoors, sow seeds 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date in your area. If sowing outdoors, wait until after the last frost date when the soil has warmed up.

2. Soil Preparation : Prepare a well-draining, nutrient-rich soil with plenty of organic matter. Red cabbage prefers a slightly acidic soil with a pH of around 6.0-7.0.

3. Sowing Seeds : Plant seeds ¼ to ½ inch deep in seed-starting trays or directly in the garden soil. Space seeds 12-18 inches apart in rows that are 24-36 inches apart. If starting indoors, keep the soil consistently moist until seedlings emerge.

4. Transplanting : Once seedlings have developed several sets of true leaves and outdoor temperatures are suitable, transplant them into the garden. Space transplants 12-18 inches apart in rows as mentioned earlier.

5. Sunlight and Watering : Red cabbage thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Ensure plants receive at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day. Keep the soil consistently moist, providing about 1-2 inches of water per week, adjusting based on weather conditions.

6. Fertilizing : Red cabbage is a heavy feeder and benefits from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer or compost tea every few weeks throughout the growing season, following package instructions.

7. Weed Control : Keep the area around red cabbage plants free from weeds to minimize competition for nutrients and water. Regularly remove weeds by hand or with a hoe.

8. Pest and Disease Management : Monitor plants for common pests like cabbage worms and aphids, and take appropriate measures to control them. Red cabbage is also susceptible to diseases like clubroot and fungal infections, so practice crop rotation and maintain good garden hygiene.

9. Harvesting : Red cabbage matures in about 80-100 days after planting. Harvest heads when they feel firm and dense, typically 6-8 inches in diameter. Cut the heads at the base with a sharp knife, leaving the outer leaves intact for protection.

By following these steps, you can successfully grow nutritious and vibrant red cabbage in your garden, ready to enjoy in a variety of culinary creations!