How to Fertilize Cabbage

Cabbage requires moist, well-drained soil to grow well in the garden, but even good-quality soil requires additional fertilization. A soil test before you plant gives you the best guide as to which nutrients your soil needs for a successful crop, but you can follow general fertilizer guidelines in an established bed if you decide to forgo testing. The cabbage requires additional fertilization once it's growing well to ensure the continued health of the plant and an abundant harvest.

10-10-10 or 8-8-8 fertilizer
Spading fork or spade
Ammonium nitrate fertilizer

Instructions

- 1
  Spread 3 to 4 lbs of a complete, slow release fertilizer over every 100 square feet of garden bed. A 10-10-10 or 8-8-8 fertilizer blend provides sufficient nutrition.
- 2
  Incorporate the fertilizer into the soil after application. Till it into the top 8 inches of the soil using a spading fork or a spade. Dig into the bed the desired depth and flip the soil and fertilizer over, so it's mixed in with the top soil.
- 3
  Fertilize the cabbage four to six weeks after the cabbage is transplanted or has sprouted, if you direct seeded it into the bed. Sprinkle 8-8-8 fertilizer at a rate of 3 cups per 100 feet, or apply 1 lb. of ammonium nitrate fertilizer to each 100 feet. Apply the fertilizer 6 inches away from the base of the cabbage plants, as direct fertilizer contact can burn the cabbage.
- 4
  Irrigate the bed immediately following fertilization. Water dilutes the fertilizer and makes the nutrients liquid, which helps the cabbage roots absorb and use the fertilizer.

Does Beer Help Pumpkins to Grow?

What Happens If You Plant Broccoli Too Early?

Growing Vegetables