Cabbage : Spring : April

Vegetable

Description

It has one very big advantage over most other cabbages suitable for autumn sowing. Cabbage April can withstand the bolting tendency (running to seed with resulting complete loss of crop) which often plagues autumn sown cabbage and it can also be sown very close together 38cm (15in) apart 25cm (10in) between rows. Ideal where space is at a premium.

Sowing Instructions

Sow seeds outdoors in a well prepared seed bed in spring for autumn cabbages or summer for spring cabbages. Sow seeds thinly 12mm (½in) deep in rows 23cm (9in) apart. If the soil is dry, water well and allow to drain before sowing.

Growing Instructions

Transplant at the 5-6 leaf stage allowing a minimum of 25x38cm (10x15in) between plants. The soil should be firm and contain plenty of well rotted compost etc, preferably from a previous crop, it should also be well limed. Just before planting, rake in 3oz/sq yd of a balanced fertiliser.

Aftercare

Hoe occasionally and water if the weather is dry. Spring sowings mature in autumn and a summer sowing in early spring as 'spring greens', and spring as mature cabbages.

Nutritional Information

Eaten raw or cooked, cabbages are an excellent source of Vitamin C. Try to use all healthy outer leaves, as the darkest green leaves contain the most nutrients.