Cabbage Seeds,
Premium Late Flat Dutch

This variety performs best when planted in cool seasons. For an early crop, start seeds indoors about 8-12 weeks before the last expected frost and transplant seedlings outdoors 4 weeks before the last frost date. For a fall harvest, seeds can be started in mid-summer. This cabbage requires approximately 100 days to mature, depending on growing conditions. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

Start seeds indoors by sowing them 1/4 inch deep in seed trays filled with a good quality seed starting mix. Seeds typically germinate within 7-10 days at temperatures of 50-75 F. Once seedlings have developed a few true leaves, they can be transplanted outdoors. Space the seedlings about 18-20 inches apart to allow enough room for heads to develop. Ensure the soil is rich in organic matter, well-drained, and has a pH of 6.0 to 7.5​.

Premium Late Flat Dutch cabbage requires even moisture for optimal growth, so water the plants regularly, aiming for about 1 inch of water per week. Avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf diseases; instead, water at the base of the plants. Mulching around the plants helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Fertilize regularly with a balanced fertilizer, especially during the early growth stages. Full sun exposure is optimal, though in very hot climates, partial shade may be beneficial to prevent heat stress.

• 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.