The English word cabbage is believed to derive from the French word cabache a term for head. Research says the 1st cabbage appeared in England in the 14th century, the savoy cabbage were not developed until the 16th century. Today China is the worlds leading producer of cabbages, growing 30 million tons a year. It is said Ancient Egyptians used to eat them before meals to help prevent drunkenness. With some careful planning there is no reason why you cant have cut cabbages for twelve months of the year. Cabbages grow best in undisturbed fertile soil that has been dug over in the Autumn & not prior to planting. They will flourish from a reasonably sunny position & need plenty of room to grow, use cabbage collars if cabbage root fly is a problem & protect from birds when plants are young.
Cabbages contain no fat & are extremely low in calories & are very high in vitamins C, K, B6 and are an excellent source of folate, manganese, & calcium. Again historically cabbages were thought to have extensive medicinal advantages. Ancient Greeks used to use them as a laxative , an antidote for mushroom poisoning & to help heal bruises.
Always remember to read sowing instructions on seed packets
Blog & research by Mark Burton (Allotment Secretary)
