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Monday, February 25, 2013

Loose Heads on Napa Cabbage




There are two main reasons why the napa cabbage does not form a tight head – variety and temperature.  Some varieties will simply produce a firmer head than others. The best approach is to plant several varieties and see which is best for your area. In tropical locations, obviously plant the tropical varieties.

Going hand-in-hand with the proper variety is temperature.  Napa cabbage prefers cooler temperatures.  Some area may be too warm to produce a firm head, especially if they are grown during the warmer months. For warm climates, try different planting seasons - fall, winter and early spring.

Concerning insect pests, aphids are quite common on cabbage and other crucifers.  A soap or oil spray should work well.  If worms are eating holes in the leaves, use BT (Bacillus thuringiensis).