Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
vest seeds when the first pods have dried and the majority of pods are golden brown, yet still soft. Waiting too long to har-
vest can result in pods exploding on their own and their seed falling to the ground.
CULTIVATION HISTORY
Shredding and fermenting is an ancient method of preserving and storing
cabbage: sauerkraut was for centuries the primary source of vitamin C in temperate climate diets. The
typical white and red cabbage forms were developed in the early Middle Ages in central and western
Europe. White cabbage is known practically the world over, but red cabbage cultivation is on the de-
cline, as evidenced by decreased demand in stores and restaurants; it is now grown primarily in central
Europe and the Netherlands. Each has its own characteristics. Whereas varieties of white cabbage can
be found with any shape of head you can imagine, red cabbage heads do not vary far from spherical in
shape. Through breeding, both red and white forms have lent their traits to other cabbages (e.g., the
dense, tight heads of some savoy cabbages are derived from white cabbage).
SAVOY CABBAGE
Brassica oleracea
convar.
capitata
var.
sabauda
WHAT YOU'LL NEED
• 10 to 15 healthy plants
• overwintering strategy (may vary by variety)
• insect netting (or absence of cabbage pests)
• trellis or one support pole per flowering plant
• bed sheet or cloth bag
GROWING FOR SEED
Savoy cabbage is hardier than other head-forming cole crops, withstanding tem-
peratures as low as 14°F (−10°C). Overwinter plants indoors where it gets colder than this in the
winter, especially varieties intended for an autumn harvest. Savoy cabbage is especially sensitive to
drying out, which starts with severe wilting of the leaves.
Savoy cabbage is an especially hardy cole crop.
SELECTION CHARACTERISTICS
Savoy cabbages are divided into three groups: those with a loose
head for spring and summer; a storage variety with a heavy, yellow head; and a light-headed, greenish
winter savoy cabbage. Potential selection criteria:
