gardening
Spring Cabbage
The spring cabbage is ready for use in the spring; they are not spring-sown. These are grown throughout the winter; the best position to grow these is a sheltered spot on well-drained land. They need a light soil, which will warm up quickly after the turn of the year and that will encourage the roots to get growing early. In order that good use is made of the land they are planted immediately after the harvesting of a well-manured crop such as potatoes or peas, then it is not necessary for any further manure or special soil preparation.
Sowing A semi-shady position is required in which to sow the seeds. The seeds are sown in July but can be sown up to the middle of August in the south of the British Isles. Rake over the ground then firm by treading, rake once more to give a fine crumbly surface, and then, with the corner of the draw hoe, scratch out drills ½ in. (12mm) deep and 6 in. (15cm) apart. Sow the seed thinly into the drills, and then cover carefully using the rake. Firm over the top with the back of the rake head.
Planting Out The seeds should be ready to plant into their growing position about the middle of September. Water the seed bed well the day before you intend to plant out, this will help to allow the plants to be lifted easily without damaging them. With a dibber make rows of holes in the planting out area 1 ½ ft. (45cm) apart, allowing 1 ft. (30cm) between the holes in each row. From the seedbed, lift out the young plants with a hand-fork so that the roots remain covered with a little soil. It is much easier to complete the lifting task before starting to re-plant, it will save time and energy rather than making many journeys backwards and forwards between plots, lifting a few and planting them. Lay the plants on the seedbed keeping them covered with damp sacking until they are ready to re-plant. Plant the seedlings firmly, after which they should be well watered taking great care not to disturb the roots.
General Care Keep down the weeds between each row using a hoe until early November. If the soil is heavy, make a 4 in. (101mm) furrow between the rows to carry away excess moisture in case the weather is wet. Once the crop has put on some growth give the plants a top dressing of dried blood at the rate of ½ oz. (15g) per plant.
Terry Blackburn. Internet Marketing Consultant, living in South Shields in the North-East of England. Author and Producer of blog http://www.lawnsurgeon.blogspot.com Author of "Your Perfect Lawn," a 90 Page eBook devoted to Lawn Preparation, Lawn Care and Maintenance. Find it at http://www.lawnsurgeon.com I would be very interested to have your comments on this Article.
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gardening
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