CABBAGE ‘Charleston Wakefield Sugarloaf’ Vegetable Seeds
Botanical Name: Brassica oleracea var. capitata
- Heirloom cabbage with sweet, tender leaves and compact, pointed heads resembling a sugarloaf.
- Ideal for fresh eating, stir-fries, soups, and especially coleslaw due to its flavourful crunch.
- Early-maturing variety, perfect for spring and autumn crops across NZ.
- Resistant to bolting, extending the harvest window in varied climates.
- Easy to grow in home gardens and adaptable to a wide range of soil types.
- Harvest when heads are firm—can be stored short term in a cool, dry space.
Plant Details
- Plant Type: Annual leafy vegetable
- Plant Height: 30–40 cm
Sowing Information
- Germination: 7–14 days
- Depth: Sow 1–2 cm deep
- Position: Full sun to partial shade
- Sow Where: Directly into garden beds or start in trays and transplant
- Soil Type: Well-drained, fertile soil with pH 6–7.5
- Spacing: 30–45 cm between plants
Growing Tips
- Keep soil consistently moist, especially during dry weather.
- Mulch around plants to conserve moisture and reduce weeds.
- Harvest when heads are fully formed and firm to the touch.
Harvest
70–85 days after sowing. Pick heads before they split for best texture and storage.
When to Sow ‘Charleston Wakefield Sugarloaf’ in Your NZ Region
| NZ Region | Best Planting Time | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Northern NZ | March–May, August–October | Sow in early autumn or late winter. Shade young seedlings if weather is hot. |
| Central NZ | February–April, August–September | Prefers cooler conditions. Avoid mid-summer sowing. |
| Southern NZ | September–December | Start after frost risk has passed. Provide protection in late spring if needed. |
Growing Microgreens
- Can also be grown as microgreens for tender, sweet leaves.
- Sow seeds densely in trays filled with moist seed-raising mix.
- Keep in a warm, bright spot and water daily.
- Harvest in 10–14 days when seedlings reach 5–7 cm tall.
