Cabbage is a cool season crop - sow seeds indoors 6 weeks before your last hard frost. You can direct sow a crop for fall harvest in mid-summer.

Grown even in Roman times, the cabbage of today is more compact and tasty. It's a classic ingredient in many dishes such as sauerkraut, corned beef, and even cole slaw.

Must be started indoors 6 weeks before your last frost date. You can direct sow a crop for fall harvest in mid-summer.

Avoid planting in the same spot each year as any cabbage family crop.

Cabbage plants need up to 1 1/2 inches of water a week. Well amended soil is vital to ensure vigorous growth.

Cabbage is bothered by few insects and diseases. Floating row covers keep most insects at bay. Always avoid planting in the same spot each year as any other cabbage family crop.

Harvest cabbage heads when they have formed tight, firm heads. Cut the stem below the head but do not pull the remaining plant. Smaller heads often develop near the base of harvested heads.

You can serve cabbage raw or cooked – it's great both ways! Try it steamed, boiled, stir-fried, sauted or baked. Shred cabbage for delicious cole slaw and sauerkraut.