Kalibos

Cabbage

Zone 8b Save Garden

🌱 75d to harvest Rosette

Sink your senses into Kalibos’ richly hued heads—an arresting deep burgundy that deepens toward the center, with a crisp, tightly…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Feb 23rd
Last Frost	Mar 23rd
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Mar 16th
Harvest Begins	May 30th
Harvest Ends	Nov 12th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	75
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Rosette
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	45
Min Soil Temp (°F)	45
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 (Kalibos), and how do I treat it?

Cabbage worm and other caterpillars commonly chew Kalibos leaves, especially as heads start to form. Hand-pick early and spray Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) when you first see small larvae; also use a fine row cover over transplants to prevent egg-laying. If you notice black, greasy spots or yellowing with sooty growth, remove affected leaves immediately and improve airflow to reduce moisture on foliage.

How often should I water Kalibos during the main growing phase to keep heads developing well?

During head formation (roughly mid-season through maturity), keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged, aiming for about 1 inch of water per week total from rain and irrigation. Water deeply 1–2 times per week so moisture reaches the root zone, and avoid frequent light sprinkling that leaves foliage wet and encourages leaf disease. If the top 1 inch of soil feels dry, water—if it stays wet or squishes when pressed, back off.

How can I tell when Kalibos is ready to harvest?

Harvest when heads are firm and well-formed for the size you expect, usually around 75 days from transplanting (or near the package timeline). Use a gentle squeeze test—if it feels solid and doesn’t depress easily, it’s ready. Cut the head with a sharp knife, leaving a short outer stem; you can often remove outer leaves and let remaining plants continue growing for a later flush.

Sink your senses into Kalibos’ richly hued heads—an arresting deep burgundy that deepens toward the center, with a crisp, tightly layered texture that holds its shape beautifully. Expect a sweet, cabbage-forward flavor with a clean snap and tender bite, ideal for bold color in salads and slaws, as well as vibrant braises and tangy ferments. Grow Kalibos for a showpiece red cabbage that stays attractive in the garden through the full 75 days to maturity, rewarding you with dependable, uniform heads and striking color from harvest to storage.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 45°F and nights stay above 32°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 6 days first.

Expert Note

For sweet, tender red cabbage leaves, keep plants evenly watered and avoid heat stress—transplant into cool conditions and use row cover during chilly snaps.