Ormskirk Savoy
85d to harvest
Feel the slow, satisfying crunch of Ormskirk Savoy as its tight head forms—deeply quilted leaves with a cool, sea-green sheen that seems to hold winter light. With a mild, sweet cabbage flavor and a tender, finely savoyed texture, it’s ideal for long-season growing and steady harvest when temperatures turn crisp. Grow Ormskirk Savoy for hearty braises, comforting soups, and classic slaws that showcase its richly ruffled leaf surface.
Crop Dates
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Start Indoors | Apr 27th |
| Last Frost | May 25th |
| Transplant / Sow Outdoors | May 18th |
| Harvest Begins | Aug 11th |
| Harvest Ends | Aug 29th |
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 |
Recommended Companions
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s a common disease or pest problem for Brassica oleracea var. capitata (savoy cabbage), and how do I manage it?
Watch for cabbage worms (imported cabbageworm/diamondback moth larvae) that chew ragged holes in the savoy leaves. Use row cover after transplanting to prevent egg laying, and hand-pick larvae early; if needed, spot-treat with a Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) product targeted to caterpillars. Also inspect for black rot symptoms (yellowing V-shaped leaf edges that darken) and remove infected plants promptly to prevent spread through splashing water.
How often should I water Ormskirk Savoy cabbage during the main growing phase?
During active head-building (roughly mid-season through the last 4–6 weeks), keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Aim for about 1–1.5 inches (2.5–4 cm) of water per week, adjusting to rainfall and heat, and water at the soil line to reduce leaf wetness. In uneven moisture, cabbage heads are more likely to split, so avoid long dry spells followed by heavy watering.
How can I tell when Ormskirk Savoy cabbage is ready to harvest?
Harvest when heads feel firm to the squeeze and the outer leaves look fully developed, typically around 85 days from transplanting. You’ll notice the head stops “filling” and stays tight rather than springy. Cut at the base with a sharp knife, leaving a bit of wrapper leaf to protect the savoy texture during storage.