From a botanical point of view, cabbage can be called dozens of species of cultivated and ornamental plants.There are hundreds of varieties in total, all of them derived from one wild starting form that still grows in nature today.It can be found on the steep slopes of southern England and on the island of Heligoland.
In garden cultivation, vegetable cabbage is the most important, which includes, among others, kale, Brussels sprouts, kale, white and red cabbage. Garden varieties are annuals. For savoy cabbage, Brussels sprouts and kale, it takes 4 months (from sowing) for the heads to mature to harvest. During this time, you can sow in rows, for example, spinach or lamb's lettuce, or use the bed for the cultivation of endives.
The leaves of white and red cabbage are covered with a charicteristic layer of wax. It is a remnant of a wild ancestor who thus protected itself from the drying winds that lifted the s alty sea water.Both cabbages are moderately resistant to frost.At the end of November at the latest, the heads must be cut and dug in the inspection.
We handle kale differently. Frosts are not terrible for him, and they even serve him, because as the temperature drops, the leaves of the spring become softer in taste. It is worth emphasizing that the taste of vegetables is better influenced by long-term cooling down than severe short frosts.Under the influence of photosynthesis, i.e. the production of organic compounds with the participation of light, sugars are formed, which, as a result of a slowed down metabolism, accumulate in the leaves.
Brussels sprouts are grown in autumn and winter varieties. Only the varieties intended for the October and November harvest are announced (e.g. the 'Rosella' variety).This allows the heads to mature evenly.A winter Brussels sprouts treated in this way, such as 'Hilds Ideal' or the traditional Belgian 'Roodnerf', would have less frost resistance and develop swollen, loose buds.
By abundant irrigation and supplementing the crops with additional fertilizer, the number and size of the heads can be influenced to some extent.Never tear off the leaves that surround the shoot, because they delay the setting of buds.Additionally, the leaves are a natural protection of the florets against frost, significantly extending the harvest.
Decorative forms of cabbage have a special position. These are extremely original plants with beautifully cut curly leaves of different colors.Decorative cabbage tolerates the cold very well.Low temperatures even serve her, because under their influence, the leaves take on a more intense color.Decorative varieties can be grown in pots or in the ground, e.g. in an arrangement with gold and heathers.
