AKENO F1 - Hybrid Napa Cabbage Seeds

Chinese cabbage may be direct sown or started indoors early for fall and spring crops. For spring planting start seeds indoors about 8 weeks before outdoor planting. Sow 2 seeds per cell, 1/4" deep in cell trays. For summer/fall planting, start seedlings in early summer or direct seed all along summer. For direct seeding, Sow 3–4 seeds every 12–18" (thin to one plant) in rows 18-30". To avoid bolting be sure to wait until the last frost date to transplant or direct-seed the crop. 

PLANT OUT: Transplant out in 3–5 weeks taking care not to disturb roots; water-in plants. Plant every 12–18" in rows 18-30" apart. The planting site must have well-draining soil to prevent rot, and it should get at least partial sun. Make sure no nearby taller plants will grow throughout the season and cause too much shade for the cabbage. Container growth is also an option. The more space you give them, the larger the heads will grow.  

EXPOSURE: Chinese cabbage can grow in full sun or partial shade. It typically should get at least four to five hours of direct sun each day. 

WATER & FEED: Cabbage is a heavy feeder; it quickly depletes the soil of nutrients and needs a steady supply of water and nutrients throughout its growth. Prepare the soil in advance by mixing in aged manure and/or compost. Soil should also be well-draining: roots that stand in water cause heads to split or rot. Water 2 inches per square foot per week. Fertilize 2 weeks after transplanting with a balanced (10-10-10) fertilizer. Three weeks later, add a nitrogen-rich fertilizer; cabbage needs nitrogen in the early stages. 

PROTECT: Grow young plants under fleece or mesh to protect against cabbage root fly and flea beetles; root flies will also be deterred using “cabbage collars” — disks that shield the soil at the base of the plant. Create barriers and traps around plants to control slugs and snails. Netting stretched over supports will keep hungry pigeons away. Mulch thickly around the area to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Practice crop rotation with cabbages to avoid a buildup of soil-borne diseases. 

Chinese cabbage is ready to harvest when the head feels firm. Gently squeeze the head to test it. A mature cabbage head that is ready to be picked will feel dense with little give. Start checking the heads at around 70 days after they've sprouted. To harvest, simply use a knife to cut the head at its base. You also can pull up the entire plant, roots and all, if you wish to clear the planting site. Wrapped in plastic, the head can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.