We have seen some changing times with regards to our temperatures and climatic conditions here in South Africa – including deadly heat waves and extended periods of high rainfall. Now, more than ever, it is important that farmers select the right cabbage variety for a specific slot. One that has the most suitable disease package for the season, and won’t take too long to mature. One that is uniform and vigorous, but also yields a large head (specifically for our hawker market).
One of our summer varieties that checks all these boxes is 𝗢𝗣𝗧𝗜𝗠𝗔. When planted at the preferred density, and with care, Optima will easily yield 6kg to 8kg heads as seen on these photos.
J-rooting is a major challenge and occurs when a seedling is planted in hard, unripped soils, or when a seedling is pressed into the soil physically bending the seedling plug resulting in a j-shaped root. J-rooted seedlings’ growth will never catch up to properly planted seedlings since it cannot take up nutrients and water as it should. It will eventually be the most susceptible to insect damage and disease infection.
Planting at a proper density will also result in healthier, bigger heads. For large cabbage, a spacing of more or less 50cm is needed between seedlings. Between row spacing will depend on your implements and irrigation practices.
For more information and recommendations, contact your Sakata area representative. https://sakata.co.za/contact/
