What to do if cabbage heads do not form: agronomists explain how to fix the problem

Fertilizing cabbage should begin at the seedling stage. This crop grows best in beds with neutral or slightly acidic soil. Early varieties of cabbage need two fertilizations, while medium and late varieties are fertilized an average of 3-4 times per season

In the second half of summer, the stage of head formation begins. However, it often happens that despite the lush foliage, the head of cabbage never begins to form. Agronomists told us how to prevent this.

Why cabbage heads do not form

Insufficient lighting is the first reason for the lack of cabbage heads. Cabbage does not like partial shade. In the case of a lack of direct sun, the plant begins to grow leaves, but heads of cabbage are in no hurry to form. Experienced gardeners warn that in this case, cabbage may not yield any crops at all. Therefore, cabbage should be planted only in open sunny areas.

Another reason is the density of planting. Cabbage grows poorly in conditions of insufficient air circulation. Cabbage should be planted according to the scheme in accordance with the recommendations of the selected variety. For example, there is cabbage with a leaf diameter of 50-60 cm, and some varieties can grow twice as wide.

What fertilizers will help

Fertilizers are best applied under the root on moist soil as there is a risk of burns if certain solutions get on the leaves.

Experts do not recommend fertilizing cabbage too often and generously with organic matter with a lot of nitrogen as this will only contribute to the growth of green mass.

Alternating potash, phosphorus, and calcium fertilizers is optimal. Cabbage heads will grow faster if you fertilize the cabbage with an infusion of compost and wood ash. This fertilizer can be applied every 10-14 days.

Calcium nitrate, potassium humate, and potassium magnesium will also be useful.

Which fertilizers should not be used

Potassium sulfate increases the acidity of the soil, which adversely affects the growth of cabbage and the formation of heads.

Potassium chloride is also prohibited as this fertilizer contains chlorine, which cabbage does not tolerate.

On the Internet, you can find advice on cutting off cabbage leaves. So, they say, it will grow better. In fact, you can remove the lower leaves that turn yellow or lie on the ground only.

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