Vertus

Cabbage

85d to harvest

Crisp, savoyed leaves unfurl into a dense, elegant head with a cool, ocean-green glow and a finely quilted texture that feels almost velvety to the eye. “Vertus” develops with steady confidence—tight, uniform curds and a mild, sweet-green flavor that shines in fresh salads and becomes especially expressive when lightly cooked into comforting dishes. A dependable 85-day choice for gardeners who want a handsome winter-ready cabbage with standout surface beauty and satisfying crunch.

Crop Dates

Growing note: In frost-free Zone 13a, 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 25th
Harvest Ends	Feb 28th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	85
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Rosette
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	45
Min Soil Temp (°F)	40
Min Night Temp (°F)	32
Harden Off (days)	6

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the most common disease pest issue for Brassica oleracea var. capitata (cabbage) and how can I prevent it?

Watch for cabbage aphids and cabbage worms (cabbage loopers/diamondback moth larvae), which chew leaves and leave frass or ragged holes. Use floating row cover from transplanting until heads start to form, and hand-pick larger larvae when you see them. For aphids, spray off with a strong water jet and use insecticidal soap if infestations persist.

How often should I water Brassica oleracea var. capitata during peak head growth (about weeks 4–8 after transplanting)?

Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy—aim for about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week, split into 2–3 waterings in warm weather. Check by digging 2–3 inches down; the soil should feel evenly damp, not wet or dry. Uneven moisture can slow head formation and increase the risk of head splitting.

How do I tell when Brassica oleracea var. capitata is ready to harvest at ~85 days?

Harvest when heads are firm to the touch and have reached a full, solid size; gently squeeze the head—if it feels loose or springy, give it more time. Expect outer leaves to look slightly tightened around the head as maturity approaches. If heads are firm and you’re near the final days to maturity, cut at the base with a sharp knife and remove outer leaves with damage.