Cabbage Seeds, Filderkraut

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4.5
4 Reviews
Sku:
#CB126
Min. seed count:
50
$4.00

Description

(Brassica oleracea). This variety stands out with its mammoth, pointed heads and extra sweet, juicy flavor, making it a garden favorite year after year. Originating from the Filder plateau in southern Germany, it’s celebrated annually at the Filderkraut festival. Harvested in fall, this long-season cabbage easily produces heads over 10 pounds, perfect for traditional sauerkraut. Developed in South Germany's farmhouse gardens in the 1700s, each village had its own strain. Despite its unique shape making it harder to process, Slow Foods has included this rare, delicious variety in its Ark of Taste.

  • 70-90 days to maturity
  • Full sun
  • Sprouts in 7-10 days
  • Seed Depth: 1/4"
  • Plant Spacing: 18-20" 
  • Ideal Temperature: 50-75 F
  • Frost Hardy: Yes

Growing Tips, Tricks and FAQs

Growing Tips

Filderkraut cabbage thrives in cool climates and full sun, making it suitable for both home gardens and market production. It's best grown in spring or fall when temperatures are cooler, as it performs poorly in the heat of summer.

When to Grow

Start seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date for a spring harvest. For a fall harvest, sow seeds in mid-summer, 6-8 weeks before the first expected frost. Filderkraut cabbage is frost-tolerant, allowing it to withstand light frosts, which makes it well-suited for spring and fall planting. It grows best in temperatures ranging from 50-75 F but can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures.

How to Sow and Plant

To grow Filderkraut cabbage, start seeds indoors by sowing them 1/4 inch deep in seed-starting trays. Keep the soil consistently moist and warm until the seeds germinate, usually within 7-10 days. Once the seedlings have developed 2-3 true leaves, harden them off before transplanting outdoors. Space the plants 18-20 inches apart. If you prefer direct sowing, plant seeds 1/4 inch deep in well-prepared soil and thin the seedlings to the appropriate spacing.

How to Grow

Filderkraut cabbage thrives in fertile, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7.0. Incorporating compost or well-rotted manure into the soil enhances fertility and structure. Regular watering is important, especially during head formation, to ensure large, firm heads. The cabbage requires about 1 inch of water per week. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer at planting and side-dress with a nitrogen-rich fertilizer every 3-4 weeks to support healthy growth. Full sun is ideal, though partial shade can help prevent bolting in hotter climates​.

How to Save

  • 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 Filderkraut cabbage to mature?
It typically takes about 70-90 days, depending on growing conditions.

What are common pests for Filderkraut cabbage and how can I prevent them?
Common pests include cabbage worms, aphids, and slugs. Use row covers to protect young plants and apply organic pest control methods like neem oil or insecticidal soap to manage pests.

Can Filderkraut cabbage be grown in containers?
Due to its large size, Filderkraut cabbage is not typically recommended for container gardening. However, if using a container, it should be large (at least 18 inches deep and wide) and filled with nutrient-rich soil​.

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Cabbage Seeds, Filderkraut
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