Cabbages going to seed :-(

This week with the warmer weather, all of my cabbages have reared up and gone to seed. I am in eastern Australia on the coast. This wek has been quite warm (17C) Which cabbages should I have chosen?

What sort did you plant? The Chinese type might be best for warmer weather although my Savoy's burst their boilers with excess rain this year.

probably WHEN you planted them is the problem. if planted at a time so that they are well grown, but not mature enough to pick, by spring then they will bolt with the warmer weather.

Guzzigirl

Oh...

When should I plant cabbage (seedlings) to avoid the problem?

Thanks! ....... still learning....

There's cabbages and cabbages. Some varieties are more suited to winter growing and others better grown in the warmer months. Don't ask me which is which though. I just put in a punnet full of a sugarloaf type, so I hope I got it right.
Also - the ones you plant in autumn that just malinger through the winter, may eventually produce a head. They are gross feeders so you need to keep the rotted manures and compost, and organic fertilisers up to them. Side feed as they grow and mulch heavily. They also like a little lime if the soil is on the acidic side. They may run to seed because they don't have enough nutrient, so they think they are dying. Running to seed is a survival mechanism in plants - looking after the next generation.
Cheers, Jan

Jan

your advice is much appreciated.

I will look for the warmer weather varieties - not always clear from seed packets since I think they were fed OK.

Thanks again,
Glen

They are a winter vegetable up here in the subtropics but still need a heavy mulch to keep the roots cool - and regular water. Love chook poo and I always lime too. Don't like loose soil either. Find the windiest spot in the garden for them

DomeMan wrote:Guzzigirl

Oh...

When should I plant cabbage (seedlings) to avoid the problem?

Thanks! ....... still learning....

I'm not real experienced in cabbages, but I would try and plant in summer for growth through autumn and winter picking (Melbourne). Have to watch out for those cabbage moths though.