SproutSmart
SproutSmart™ Intelligent Garden Sowing

Charleston Wakefield

Cabbage
Zone 12b Save Garden

Planting Schedule

Add Charleston Wakefield to your garden to build a schedule and get reminders.
Botanical illustration of Charleston Wakefield
78d to harvest

Sweetly crisp and richly aromatic, Charleston Wakefield forms tight, elongated heads with a cool, blue-green sheen that feels almost velvety to the eye. The flavor is mild and cabbage-forward with a clean snap, making it a standout for fresh slaws and hearty braises, while its dense leaves also shine in tangy ferments and pickles. Grow this classic 78-day favorite for dependable structure, excellent garden presence, and a harvest that stays satisfying from first bite to the last jar.

Crop Dates

Growing note: In frost-free Zone 12b, grow this cool-season crop during the cooler dry season (October–February).
MilestoneDate
Start Indoors—
ClimateFrost-Free Climate
Transplant / Sow OutdoorsOct 1st
Harvest BeginsDec 18th
Harvest EndsFeb 28th

Crop Details

TraitValue
Days to Maturity78
Sun RequirementsFull SunFull sun
Growth HabitRosette
Support NeededNone
Planting DepthNormal
Germination Temp (°F)45
Min Soil Temp (°F)40
Min Night Temp (°F)32
Harden Off (days)6

Today's Conditions

Outdoor planting for Charleston Wakefield in Zone 12b typically begins around 2026-10-01. Wait until soil reaches at least 40°F before transplanting Charleston Wakefield.

Garden Alerts

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

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Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I water Charleston Wakefield during its main head-forming growth?
During the main growing period (roughly once it begins forming a head), keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged—aim for about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of water per week total from rain and irrigation. Water deeply to reach the root zone, then let the top 1 inch (2.5 cm) of soil dry slightly before watering again to reduce disease pressure like head rots. Avoid letting plants swing from dry to very wet, which can stress plants and contribute to uneven head development.
How can I tell when Charleston Wakefield is ready to harvest?
Harvest when heads feel firm and solid when gently squeezed, and the outer leaves look fresh and tightly wrapped—this is typically around 78 days from transplanting (follow your sowing/transplant timing). Use a sharp knife to cut the head at the base, keeping the outer wrapper leaves intact to protect the head. If it’s nearing full firmness but heads are starting to loosen, harvest promptly to prevent quality loss.
Botanical illustration of Charleston Wakefield

Sweetly crisp and richly aromatic, Charleston Wakefield forms tight, elongated heads with a cool, blue-green sheen that feels almost velvety to the eye. The flavor is mild and cabbage-forward with a clean snap, making it a standout for fresh slaws and hearty braises, while its dense leaves also shine in tangy ferments and pickles. Grow this classic 78-day favorite for dependable structure, excellent garden presence, and a harvest that stays satisfying from first bite to the last jar.

Today's Conditions

Outdoor planting for Charleston Wakefield in Zone 12b typically begins around 2026-10-01. Wait until soil reaches at least 40°F before transplanting Charleston Wakefield.

Garden Alerts

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

Sowing Tips

Soil Temperature

Direct sow or transplant when soil at planting depth holds 40°F for reliable germination and early growth.

Expert Note

For best head formation, keep plants from overheating—use row cover or shade cloth during warm spells and keep soil evenly moist.