Charleston Wakefield Cabbage (Heirloom 70 Days)

An 1892 Heirloom, the Charleston Wakefield Cabbage is a heat-tolerant cabbage that does well in just about any climate in the US. Forms conical-shaped heads, similar to Early Jersey Wakefield but larger, weighing 4-6 pounds. Stores well. 

30 seeds 

PLANTING

Brassica oleracea

Germination: 7-12 days

Germination Temperature: Optimum soil temperatures 65-85ºF.

Seed Sowing Depth: 1/4” deep

Starting Indoors: 4-6 weeks before the last frost or 4-6. Sow 2-3 seeds per cell/pot. Fertilize the seedlings every 7-10 days with a liquid or water-soluble fertilizer, diluted to ¼ of the suggested measurement. Transplant a week or two before the last frost. Sow in late spring to transplant out for fall crops. 

Sowing Outdoors: In spring when the soil temperature reaches at least 60ºF. Sow 2-3 seeds every 15-18” apart for small-headed varieties, and 24-36” for large-headed varieties. Thin to the strongest seedling per space. Sow in early summer for fall crops. Germination is slower at lower soil temperatures.

How much does a packet plant: 15-20 foot single row

Harvest:  If the heads feel solid by pushing on them lightly they are ready to harvest. Harvest as soon as possible for early varieties to prevent splitting. Later maturing storage varieties will hold longer.

Tips: A heavy feeder. The Charleston Wakefield Cabbage needs to grow in fertile soil, rich in organic matter. Amend with compost if the soil is not fertile. Provide adequate, even moisture for optimum growth. Mulching helps retain moisture.