[Denny]

Hi there, I have cabbages that I have grown fron seed in November, they have been planted out at the beginning of the year and I keep looking at them and although the majority have grown they are still only about 12 inches in diameter ish but have only 3 - 4 leaves in the middle, do you think I should pull them up or feed them, perplexed what do you think

[mumofstig]

what variety were they?

[Denny]

Ha, just found the packet and they are called Cabbage winter jewel - Denny

[DD.]

Does it give the sowing times on the packet?

These are a spring cabbage and should be sown a lot earlier than November. You have have to give them some time yet.

[mumofstig]

according to T&M they are more a spring greens type of cabbage, so if they haven't hearted up by now- they won't.

T & M: Cabbage 'Jewel' (Winter)
Brassica oleracea (Capitata Group)
Hardy Annual

Outstanding introduction for over-winter production of evenly sized, smooth, dark leaved greens. Very slow to heart, eventually forming compact 250g (8oz) loose heads. Superb winter hardiness and has excellent flavour and bolting resistance.

snapish

[Denny]

Yes you are right I probably did plant them earlier as the packet says so, and I should be harvesting Jan - April, so it looks like they arent going to do a lot, so shall I pull them up - regards Denny

[mumofstig]

The variety you chose was not a good one if you wanted a cabbage which hearted up, they were more for spring greens.

[Denny]

Thanks all for your help, which variety would you all recommend in future?  Regards Denny

[fatcat1955]

Hispi  is my favourite. Never fails.

[mumofstig]

To eat in autumn I sow Minicole, for winter I sow Tundra, for eating in spring I sow April.

Hispi is also good for spring if you can start them early the year in a greenhouse or coldframe, but they don't stand through winter weather 

[Denny]

Brilliant help, will try those next time - THANKS xxx