Sessantina Grossa

Cabbage

Zone 6b Save Garden

Botanical illustration of Sessantina Grossa

🌱 55d to harvest Rosette

Crisp, cool-sweet leaves unfurl to form a dense, generous head with a satisfying crunch at first bite—Sessantina Grossa is all ab…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Mar 28th
Last Frost	Apr 25th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Apr 25th
Harvest Begins	Jun 19th
Harvest Ends	Oct 16th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	55
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 pest or disease is most common on Brassica oleracea var. capitata (cabbage) and how can I control it?

Cabbage often suffers from cabbageworm (imported cabbageworm/diamondback moth larvae) and can also develop black rot in humid conditions. Inspect leaves weekly, especially the undersides, and hand-pick larvae early; for heavier pressure use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) labeled for cabbage and apply according to label directions. To reduce black rot, avoid working plants when foliage is wet and remove and discard infected leaves promptly.

How often should I water during the main growing phase to grow firm heads of Brassica oleracea var. capitata?

During head formation, keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged—aim for about 1 to 1.5 inches (2.5–4 cm) of water per week total, adjusting for heat and rainfall. Water deeply so moisture reaches the root zone, and avoid letting the soil dry out completely between waterings because uneven moisture can lead to loose heads and splitting. Mulch around plants to stabilize moisture levels and reduce the need for frequent shallow watering.

How do I tell when Sessantina Grossa cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata) is ready to harvest?

Harvest when heads are firm and reach the expected size for your spacing, typically around 55 days from planting to maturity. Check by gently squeezing the head—if it feels tight throughout with minimal give, it’s ready. If outer leaves yellow or heads start to loosen, harvest promptly to maintain texture and flavor.

Crisp, cool-sweet leaves unfurl to form a dense, generous head with a satisfying crunch at first bite—Sessantina Grossa is all about that satisfying, garden-fresh snap. The outer foliage is richly blue-green, while the interior gathers into a pale, creamy heart that stays tender and uniform. Ideal for fresh salads, slaws, and quick sautés, this 55-day cabbage shines whenever you want a bold cabbage flavor with a clean, crisp texture.

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 the best peppery-sweet flavor, grow rapini in cool weather and avoid hot spells by aiming to transplant just before the mild-warm window after your last spring frost.