Early White
55d to harvest
Crisp and luminous, Early White forms tight, round heads with a clean, pale-green to creamy-white interior that feels cool and snappy at first touch. Expect a fine, tender crunch and a mild, sweet cabbage flavor that shines in quick fresh preparations and classic slaws, while also holding its own for braising and hearty winter-style dishes. A dependable 55-day favorite for gardeners who want early harvests without sacrificing that satisfying, garden-fresh bite.
Crop Dates
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Start Indoors | Apr 21st |
| Last Frost | May 19th |
| Transplant / Sow Outdoors | May 19th |
| Harvest Begins | Jul 13th |
| Harvest Ends | Sep 21st |
Crop Details
| Trait | Value |
|---|---|
| Days to Maturity | 55 |
| Sun Requirements | Full Sun |
| Growth Habit | Rosette |
| Support Needed | None |
| Planting Depth | Normal |
| Germination Temp (°F) | 85 |
| Min Soil Temp (°F) | 40 |
| Min Night Temp (°F) | 35 |
| Harden Off (days) | 6 |
Recommended Companions
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my Brassica oleracea var. capitata (cabbage, Early White) leaves turning yellow and developing holes, and what should I do?
Cabbage commonly suffers from cabbage worms (including imported cabbageworm and loopers) and aphids, which can cause ragged holes and distorted growth. Inspect the undersides of leaves twice a week and hand-pick caterpillars when you see them; for control, spray an appropriate Bt product (Bacillus thuringiensis) in the evening to target young larvae and repeat as directed on the label. If you see heavy aphid colonies, blast them off with water and spot-treat affected patches with an insecticidal soap, reapplying after 5–7 days if needed.
How can I tell when my Early White cabbage is ready to harvest?
Harvest when heads are firm to the touch and have reached their variety-typical size, typically about 55 days after sowing (or per your transplanting schedule). Check a few outer heads: if the wrapper leaves feel crisp and the head doesn’t compress easily, it’s ready. Don’t wait until the head is overmature—firm heads can start to crack, especially after heavy rain.