Early Jersey Wakefield Cabbage on a white background.
Cabbage Seeds, Early Jersey Wakefield
Early Jersey Wakefield Cabbage halved and shredded
Early Jersey Wakefield Cabbage, whole, halved and shredded
Cabbage Seeds, Early Jersey Wakefield
Early Jersey Wakefield Cabbage on a white background.
Cabbage Seeds, Early Jersey Wakefield
Early Jersey Wakefield Cabbage halved and shredded
Early Jersey Wakefield Cabbage, whole, halved and shredded
Cabbage Seeds, Early Jersey Wakefield

Cabbage Seeds,
Early Jersey Wakefield

4.223 Reviews#CB103 · 300 seeds
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Description

(Brassica oleracea). One of the earliest cabbages to grace the garden, this 1840s heirloom delivers uniform, conical heads with sweet, tender flavor. Popularized in the 1860s, it earned lasting fame for reliability and early harvest. A true pioneer variety that still brings crisp, fresh cabbage flavor to the table ahead of the season.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Brassica oleracea
Life Cycle
Biennial
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
7–10
Days to Maturity
70
Planting Depth
¼ in.
Plant Spacing
18–20 in.
Ideal Temperature
50–75°F
Frost Hardy
Yes

Growing Guide

When to Grow

This cabbage thrives in cool seasons and should be planted in early spring or late summer. For spring planting, start seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date. For a fall harvest, sow seeds in mid-summer. Early Jersey Wakefield is frost-tolerant, which allows it to withstand light frosts, making it suitable for early spring and late fall growing. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in seed trays filled with a seed-starting mix. Keep the soil moist during germination which takes 7-10 days. Transplant seedlings outdoors when they are about 4-6 weeks old, spacing them 18-20 inches apart in rows 2-3 feet apart. Ensure that all risk of frost has passed before transplanting. You can also sow seeds directly in the garden 1/4 inch deep. Thin seedlings to the desired spacing after they emerge.

How to Grow

Water the plants deeply once or twice a week, adjusting frequency during hot or dry weather. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting and side-dress with compost or a nitrogen-rich fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Provide full sun with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. In hotter climates, a bit of afternoon shade can help prevent bolting.

How to Save Seeds

  • If you plan to save seeds, isolate plants from other members of the cabbage species (kale, collards, broccoli, Brussels sprouts and cauliflower) by up to one mile to avoid cross pollination.
  • Cabbage is biennial, blooming only after experiencing a winter's chill, and will require overwintering with heavy mulch and row cover in cool winter areas.
  • For those with very harsh winters, consider digging up and placing in a root cellar until hard frost has passed.
  • In the second season, when flowers have passed and seed pods have dried, dig up the plants and hang upside down to dry.
  • Dried pods can be placed in a sack and crushed to release seeds. Remove chaff and detritus.
  • Place seeds in a glass jar and refrigerate for up to 5 years.

FAQ

How long does it take for Early Jersey Wakefield cabbage to mature?

It typically matures in about 70 days from transplanting.

What pests can affect Early Jersey Wakefield cabbage?

Common pests include cabbage worms, aphids, and clubroot. Use row covers to protect young plants, and consider using organic pest control methods like neem oil or insecticidal soap.

How should I store harvested Early Jersey Wakefield cabbage?

Once harvested, cabbage heads can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. To extend the shelf life, remove any damaged outer leaves and store the heads in a plastic bag or wrap them in a damp cloth. For long-term storage, cabbage can be blanched and frozen, which allows it to keep for up to 6 months.

Browse our full range of cabbage seeds.

Customer reviews

4.2 / 5 23 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Sweet, mild flavor: Mild and almost sweet raw; a favorite for coleslaw and kraut.

  • Manageable pointed heads: Compact, conical heads that are easy to use up in the kitchen.

  • Heads reliably: Nearly every plant forms a tight head, even for first timers.

  • Takes cold and heat: Survives freezes and overwinters; heads hold through summer.

  • Heads up: Cabbage loopers find it; cover with netting or pick them off.

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