Two Kalibos Cabbage sitting upright with a glass jar of shredded cabbage on a white background.
A single Kalibos Cabbage on a stone background.
Cabbage Seeds, Kalibos
Kalibos Cabbage head and shreds on green background
Kalibos Cabbage head on a bed of leaves.
Two Kalibos Cabbage sitting upright with a glass jar of shredded cabbage on a white background.
A single Kalibos Cabbage on a stone background.
Cabbage Seeds, Kalibos
Kalibos Cabbage head and shreds on green background
Kalibos Cabbage head on a bed of leaves.

Cabbage Seeds,
Kalibos

3.928 ReviewsSKU: #CB119
Price
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Min. 300 seeds

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Description

(Brassica oleracea). Incredibly graceful appearance would qualify Kalibos for the flower garden, but this European variety is eminently useful as well! The conical, long, heart-shaped, 2-pound heads of deep red are on the small side, ideal for a single dish. The color is so beautiful when the leaves are shredded into slaw, and the flavor is mild and very sweet. They're good keepers as well, allowing you to enjoy your fall harvest well into winter.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Brassica oleracea
Life Cycle
Biennial
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
7–10
Days to Maturity
85
Planting Depth
¼ in.
Plant Spacing
18–20 in.
Ideal Temperature
50–75°F
Frost Hardy
Yes

Growing Guide

When to Grow

Kalibos cabbage can be grown for both early spring and autumn harvests. For a spring crop, start seeds indoors about 4-6 weeks before transplanting, and set the hardened-off seedlings outdoors 2-4 weeks before the last expected frost, as this cabbage tolerates light frost. For an autumn harvest, sow seeds directly outdoors or start them indoors and transplant them in early to mid-summer. 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 Kalibos seeds about 1/4 inch deep in seed-starting mix or directly in the garden. When transplanting, space the plants about 18-20 inches apart to allow sufficient room for growth. The soil should be well-prepared with plenty of organic matter, and it should be firm but well-draining to prevent issues like club roots. Aim for a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.5.

How to Grow

Kalibos cabbage requires consistent moisture, so regular watering is essential, especially during dry spells. It's a heavy feeder, so apply a nitrogen-rich fertilizer early in the growing season and again mid-season to support leaf development. Kalibos also benefits from mulching, which helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. This cabbage variety is quite resilient and can withstand light frosts, which often enhance its sweetness.

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 Kalibos cabbage to mature?

Typically, Kalibos takes around 85 days to reach maturity, depending on growing conditions.

Can Kalibos cabbage tolerate frost?

Yes, it can tolerate light frosts, which can actually improve its flavor.

What spacing is best for Kalibos cabbage?

Space plants about 18-20 inches apart to ensure adequate air circulation and growth space.

Browse our full range of cabbage seeds.

Customer reviews

3.9 / 5 28 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Looks like a rose: Violet, pointed heads so pretty some plant them as accents.

  • Sweet and mild: Sweet, crisp and mild; good for slaw, kraut and canning.

  • Long keeper: Heads keep in the crisper or cellar into spring.

  • Needs room: Big outer leaves; plants take more space than most cabbage.

  • Heads up: Slow to head up and some never do; give it a long season.

More to grow!
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