Vertus

Cabbage

Zone 5b Save Garden

🌱 85d to harvest Rosette

Crisp, savoyed leaves unfurl into a dense, elegant head with a cool, ocean-green glow and a finely quilted texture that feels alm…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Apr 6th
Last Frost	May 4th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	May 4th
Harvest Begins	Jul 28th
Harvest Ends	Oct 5th

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 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.

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.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 40°F and nights stay above 32°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 6 days first.

Expert Note

For sweet, tender heads, keep soil evenly moist and transplant into cool weather so plants form heads before midsummer heat spikes.