Cabbage Early Flat Dutch Seedling Tray

For best results with Early Flat Dutch, plant one seedling plug per 1801 cell or 4-inch container. Use well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 and 6.8, an EC level of 1.5 to 2.0, and temperatures of 50°F and 60°F (10°C and 15°C) for this cool-season crop. To achieve optimal growth and head quality, use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 and add calcium nitrate to ensure healthy head development, applying fertilizer at a rate of 200-250 ppm N using a constant liquid feed program. Watch for aphids, whiteflies, and caterpillars. Clubroot, black rot, and downy mildew can affect Cabbage. This plant doesn't require pinching, and we don't recommend using chemical growth regulators on vegetables and herbs. 

Cabbage is a biennial plant, which means it has a two-year life cycle. This plant grows leaves during the first year and produces seed-bearing blooms in the second year. Cabbage has small, yellow flowers arranged in a dense cluster atop a tall stem. Cabbage will produce seeds when it flowers, but the leaves will no longer be edible. In vegetable gardens, remove cabbage plants at the end of the growing season and replace them each year.

You may choose to pinch cabbage plants for a few reasons. 

1. Pinching promotes bushier growth by encouraging the plant to develop multiple side shoots. 
2. Pinching improves head quality by reducing the number of outer leaves that may be more difficult to eat.
3. Pinching stimulates root growth, improving the plant's overall health and vigor.

In general, it's best to pinch Cabbage when the rooted plug has developed 4 to 6 leaves. Pinch just above the second or third set of leaves to help direct the plant's energy into developing additional leaves and a healthier root system, leading to a more robust and productive cabbage plant.

Space containers for adequate airflow and sunlight penetration around the base and foliage of each plant. Good spacing reduces the risk of pests and disease and supports high-quality seedlings. Monitor plants closely and adjust spacing as needed for optimal growth. 

In 1801s or 4-inch containers, you can control the height of your cabbage plants by ensuring that they receive adequate light, air circulation, and water. Avoid overcrowding and provide proper spacing between containers for each plant to grow and develop properly. In addition, note that fertilizers with high nitrogen can promote taller growth; use a balanced fertilizer. Pinching encourages bushier growth and a compact form. We don't recommend using chemical growth regulators to control height in vegetable plants.

Cabbage plants in a commercial greenhouse are susceptible to aphids, caterpillars, flea beetles, and slugs. Implement integrated pest management strategies that combine cultural, physical, and chemical controls.

1. Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can cause significant damage to cabbage plants by feeding on the sap of leaves and stems, which reduces yields.
2. Caterpillars: Caterpillars, such as the cabbage worm, can damage cabbage leaves by feeding on the foliage, leaving holes in the leaves.
3. Flea beetles: Flea beetles are small, jumping insects that can cause damage by feeding on the foliage, creating small, round holes in the leaves.
4. Slugs: Slugs are slimy, snail-like pests that feed on the foliage and leaves of cabbage plants, leaving behind ragged, irregular holes in the leaves.

Control pests with cultural, physical, and chemical controls. Maintain proper soil nutrition, use row covers, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil sprays, and choose approved insecticides. We recommend using insecticides on vegetable plants cautiously and always according to manufacturer instructions. Monitor plants closely and act quickly to minimize pest damage and protect the health and productivity of your cabbage crop.

Early Flat Dutch is prone to a few diseases, including:

1. Black Rot: This disease causes leaves to yellow and develop black spots. It is spread by water and can be controlled through proper irrigation practices, crop rotation, and the use of disease-resistant varieties.
2. Clubroot: This disease causes roots to become distorted and stunted. It is spread through soil and can be controlled through proper soil management, crop rotation, and the use of disease-resistant varieties.
3. Downy Mildew: This disease causes yellow patches on the leaves, which can eventually turn brown and become covered in a white, downy growth. It is spread by water and can be controlled through proper irrigation practices and the use of fungicides.

Implement proper sanitation practices in your greenhouse, including cleaning up leaves and debris regularly and spacing containers appropriately. Select disease-resistant varieties when possible, practice crop rotation, and monitor your plants for signs of disease. If you notice any symptoms, take action quickly to prevent the spread of the disease to other plants. In some cases, you may use fungicides.

We recommend planting one rooted seedling per 1801 cell or 4-inch container. Use well-draining soil and carefully remove the rooted liner to a small hole in the center of your final container. Gently firm soil around the roots and up to the base of the plant, taking care not to damage the roots. Water the plugs after transplanting.