For a healthy cabbage crop, start with healthy soil, sow seeds or set out transplants early enough in spring to allow heads to form before the heat of summer sets in or set out fall transplants early enough for heads to form before the first hard freeze. Mulch plants well and keep soil evenly moist throughout life of the plant. Keep in mind that cabbages are heavy feeders and fertilize on a regular schedule for the cultivar that is to be grown.
The Pests
There are many pests in the vegetable garden which can completely destroy a cabbage crop. The commonly found cabbage pests listed here are also found on other plants in the garden.
- Aphids appear in groups or colonies and are small black, brown, gray, green, pinkish or yellow globular-shaped insects most often found on the underside of leaves. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap spray or a commercial spray specifically formulated to treat aphids. Spray foliage with water periodically to disperse the insects.
- Cabbage Loopers are green caterpillars that should be hand-picked from leaves as soon as they appear. At the least, caterpillars will eat holes through leaves. If not removed, they will tunnel through leaves in a matter of days and may eat entire leaf so there is nothing left but cut stems. Using row covers prevents pests from attacking young plants. Commercial insecticidal dust and spray is also available to control caterpillars.
- Cutworms are gray caterpillars in or on top of the soil under young plants. Cutworms eat plants at ground level. Keep garden healthy by weeding regularly. Cultivate soil around plants, pick out and destroy any caterpillars found. Commercial insecticide may also be used.
- Flea Beetles are easy to spot on a sunny day because the sun reflects off their shiny bodies. They are black, some with lighter-colored stripes and can be seen hopping from plant to plant. Flea beetles are most often seen in the garden during hot, dry periods. Provide shade when temperatures are extreme and keep garden well watered to help keep population down. Commercial insecticide may also be used.
- Onion Thrips are small, elongated brownish bugs with lighter stripes on each side. These insects may cause leaves to shrivel, appear whitish to silver in color and be riddled with tiny holes giving foliage the appearance of fine lace. Treat the same as with flea beetle infestation.
- Rodents such as gophers, moles, rabbits, voles and others will eat young plants or tunnel through garden soil damaging the root systems which may provide an opening for disease. The best way to keep these pests out of the garden is by surrounding it with a wire fence that has been partially buried.
- Whiteflies are small flies with white wings. They are found on the undersides of leaves. When disturbed, whiteflies fill the air around plants. This pest is found in greenhouses and outdoor gardens alike. The heat and humidity in the southern states provide ideal conditions for infestation. Treat infested plants with a natural insecticidal soap solution early in the day. Retreat as needed.
Cabbage is not a hard vegetable to grow. It may take a little extra attention than some others but it is worth the effort. Remember to begin with healthy soil and be certain to plant cabbage in rotation to eliminate the spread of disease found in soil where these plants are grown. Intersperse companion plants to invite natural enemies such as ladybugs and parasitic wasps to the garden.
For more information about diseases in cabbabe plants, see the article; "Diseases Found On Cabbage Plants."
