Ruby Ball

Cabbage

70d to harvest

Ruby Ball brings a striking, jewel-toned presence to the garden—compact heads with rich, ruby-tinged outer leaves that deepen as they mature. Inside, the crisp, fine-textured leaves stay tender and sweet, offering a satisfying bite whether you savor them fresh or let them shine in hearty preparations like braises and roasted wedges. A dependable 70-day performer for home gardeners who want both beauty and reliable harvest in every season.

Crop Dates

Growing note: In frost-free Zone 12a, grow this cool-season crop during the cooler dry season (October–February).

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	—
Climate	Frost-Free Climate
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Oct 1st
Harvest Begins	Dec 10th
Harvest Ends	Feb 28th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	70
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Rosette
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	40
Min Soil Temp (°F)	40
Min Night Temp (°F)	35
Harden Off (days)	6

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease is most likely to hit Brassica oleracea var. capitata (Ruby Ball cabbage), and how do I control it?

Watch for cabbage worms/loopers (green caterpillars) that chew holes in the leaves. Hand-pick early infestations and spray as needed with a Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) product labeled for caterpillars, targeting the undersides of leaves. Also check for clubroot symptoms (swollen roots and stunted growth) and avoid planting cabbage in the same spot in successive years; if you’ve had clubroot, use fresh soil/raised beds and keep soil from staying waterlogged.

How often should I water Ruby Ball cabbage during the main growing phase?

During head formation (roughly mid-to-late season), keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy—aim for about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week, adjusted for rainfall and heat. Water deeply to about the root zone and avoid letting the surface dry out completely, because irregular moisture can contribute to poor head development. If the top few inches dry quickly, increase frequency slightly (smaller, more regular deep watering).

How can I tell when Ruby Ball cabbage is ready to harvest?

Harvest when the heads feel firm and dense when you gently squeeze them—Ruby Ball typically takes around 70 days from transplanting/sowing to maturity. The outer leaves may look slightly tightened around the head, but avoid waiting until the head starts to crack or split. Cut at the base with a sharp knife, leaving a few outer leaves to protect the head for storage.