When to harvest cabbage: how not to miss the ripening time

Cabbage is not only one of the healthiest vegetables on our table, it is also stored better than any other vegetable during the winter, becoming a key source of fresh vitamins. Nevertheless, you need to harvest it in time.

Don't know how to determine when the cabbage is fully ripe and it's time to harvest? OBOZ.UA has collected tips from experienced gardeners to help you.

Check the variety

The ripening period of cabbage largely depends on its variety. Early and medium-ripening varieties are harvested in July and August. Medium-late and late varieties are harvested from September to November.

Medium-late varieties usually take 110-135 days after germination to fully form. Late varieties take 140-160 days.

In any case, you need to harvest cabbage before the onset of cold weather. When the temperature drops below 0, the vegetable can freeze and lose its quality.

Determine the signs of ripeness

Check the condition of the cabbage heads. Ripe fruits have quite distinct external signs - their surface is smooth and shiny, and they are hard and dense to the touch. When squeezed, such a head of cabbage makes a slight crunch.

Also, take a look at the lower leaves. If they begin to dry and turn yellow, this is a signal to harvest. Another such signal is the upper leaves, which turn a bluish tint. When you notice all these signs, start harvesting.

Cut the cabbage correctly

Another condition without which cabbage will not be preserved the right way is proper harvesting. First of all, it's important to do it on a dry and sunny day, waiting until all the dew has disappeared. There should not be a drop of excess moisture on the cabbage.

Cut off the heads of cabbage, leaving 3 cm of the stem and a few leaves on it. This will protect the vegetable. Along with these leaves, air dry the cabbage to make sure it is free of water.

Sort the heads of cabbage before long-term storage. Only those that are whole and completely healthy will survive the winter. The rest, depending on the condition, should either be thrown away or eaten as soon as possible.

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