Seed Depth: 1/4–1/2 inch

Seed Spacing: 18–24 inches

Row Spacing: 24–36 inches

Sunlight: Full sun

Days to Sprout: 7–10 days

Days to Maturity: 60–90 days

Growth Habit: Upright annual

Sunlight: Requires full sun, with at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and head development.

Soil Type: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0–7.5. Enrich soil with compost or organic matter for best results.

When to Plant: Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost for spring crops, or sow directly outdoors in late summer for a fall harvest.

Direct Sowing: Plant seeds 1/4–1/2 inch deep and thin seedlings to 18–24 inches apart once they have true leaves.

Indoor Sowing: Sow seeds in seed trays and transplant when seedlings have 4–6 true leaves and outdoor temperatures are above 50°F.

Succession Planting: Plant every 2–3 weeks for a continuous harvest.

Watering: Water deeply and consistently, keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.

Fertilizing: Use a nitrogen-rich fertilizer during early growth, switching to a balanced fertilizer as heads develop.

Pruning: Remove yellowing or damaged leaves to improve airflow and focus energy on head production.

Pest and Disease Control: Watch for aphids, cabbage worms, and fungal diseases. Treat with organic solutions such as neem oil or insecticidal soap if necessary.

When to Harvest: Harvest the central head when it is firm, tight, and 4–6 inches in diameter, typically 60–90 days after planting. Continue harvesting side shoots for several weeks after the main head is cut.

How to Harvest: Use a sharp knife to cut the central head, leaving a few inches of stem and foliage for side shoot production.

Seed Collection: Allow some plants to bolt and produce seed pods. Harvest seeds when pods are fully dry.

Storing Seeds: Store seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.