Fertilizer for Cabbage: NPK Guide and Application Rates
Cabbage is a heavy-feeding brassica that needs substantial nitrogen to build the large outer leaves that wrap to form the head. The number and size of wrapper leaves directly determine head size. Nitrogen-forward feeding in the early growth phase is essential for big, dense heads.
Quick Reference
What NPK Ratio is Best for Cabbage?
The recommended NPK ratio for cabbage is 10-10-10. A balanced 10-10-10 feeds all three macronutrients equally, which works well when soil tests show no single deficiency.
Cabbage NPK needs shift at each growth stage. Balanced starter for transplants during the Seedling phase, then balanced feed during head formation once flowering begins.
NPK by Growth Stage for Cabbage
| Growth Stage | NPK Ratio | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Seedling | 10N 10P 10K N 10% Nitrogen: leaf and stem growth P 10% Phosphorus: roots and flowers K 10% Potassium: health and disease resistance Learn more about NPK | Balanced starter for transplants |
| Vegetative | 20N 10P 10K N 20% Nitrogen: leaf and stem growth P 10% Phosphorus: roots and flowers K 10% Potassium: health and disease resistance Learn more about NPK | High nitrogen for large outer wrapper leaves |
| Flowering | 10N 10P 10K N 10% Nitrogen: leaf and stem growth P 10% Phosphorus: roots and flowers K 10% Potassium: health and disease resistance Learn more about NPK | Balanced feed during head formation |
| Fruiting | 5N 10P 10K N 5% Nitrogen: leaf and stem growth P 10% Phosphorus: roots and flowers K 10% Potassium: health and disease resistance Learn more about NPK | Reduce nitrogen as heads tighten to prevent splitting |
When Should You Fertilize Cabbage?
In zone 3, start fertilizing cabbage in May. In zone 10, begin as early as January. Apply every 3 weeks through the growing season.
Which Zones Can Grow Cabbage?
Cabbage grows in USDA zones 3 through 10, spanning a 8-zone range.
Fertilization Start by Zone
| Zone | Start Month |
|---|---|
| Zone 3 | May |
| Zone 4 | April |
| Zone 5 | April |
| Zone 6 | March |
| Zone 7 | March |
| Zone 8 | February |
| Zone 9 | January |
| Zone 10 | January |
What Are the Best Fertilizer Products for Cabbage?
Look for products with an NPK close to 10-10-10. Espoma Garden-tone is the most popular choice among home gardeners for cabbage.
- Espoma Garden-tone
- Miracle-Gro All Purpose
- Neptune's Harvest Fish & Seaweed
Prices vary by retailer and region. Check current pricing before purchasing.
Container and Raised Bed Adjustments for Cabbage
Cabbage in large containers (7+ gallons) needs biweekly nitrogen-rich feeding and consistent moisture for proper head formation
Common Fertilizing Mistakes with Cabbage
- Insufficient nitrogen produces small, loose heads that never tighten
- Heavy rain or irrigation after a dry spell causes mature heads to split open
- Continuing heavy nitrogen feeding after heads firm up accelerates splitting
Tips for Fertilizing Cabbage
- Side-dress with nitrogen 3 weeks after transplanting and again 3 weeks later
- Keep soil consistently moist alongside feeding; drought stress prevents head formation
- Reduce nitrogen once heads begin to firm up to prevent splitting
Organic Fertilizer Alternatives for Cabbage
Sources
Source:Clemson University ExtensionLast updated: