How often and how to water cabbage correctly
Cabbage is one of the most popular vegetables among gardeners. For a rich and high-quality harvest, it is important to follow basic watering rules. In this article we will talk about caring for cabbage in the summer and autumn months.
How often to water cabbage in open ground
To ensure maximum benefit from watering, it is recommended to make a preliminary plan. If certain rules are followed, the soil will always be moist, the roots will not rot and the ground will not become swampy.
The frequency of watering depends on the type of cabbage, soil, ripening time, weather conditions, etc.:
- Weather conditions. If it is too dry, water once a day. It is important to ensure that the soil is moist. If it rains frequently, water the vegetable once every 3-4 days.
- Region of growth. In the southern parts of the country, watering is carried out once every 2 days, in the central regions - once every 7 days.
- Type of vegetable. White cabbage requires the most moisture. If it doesn't get enough water, its leaves will be hard and dry. From 2 to 5 liters are poured under the bush. Water broccoli once a week. For 1 sq. m use 15 l. For cauliflower, use 10 liters of liquid per 1 square meter. m. Watering is carried out once every 7 days. Chinese cabbage requires no more than 12 liters of water per 1 square meter. m. Water it once every 7 days. Water is added in small portions.
- Depending on the type of soil. Dense soil retains water, so controlling soil moisture is important. Light soil absorbs water instantly. In this case, reduce the time between waterings.Loose, nutritious soil absorbs water well and allows air to pass through. Cabbage does not like soil with high acidity. If a vegetable is planted in such soil, dolomite flour or natural chalk is added to it.
During the period of active ripening of the vegetable, add about 12 liters of water per 1 square meter. m. During other periods of plant development, 7-8 liters are poured.
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How to water correctly
The optimal water temperature is +18…+23°C. Under no circumstances should you water a vegetable with liquid whose temperature is below +12°C. It inhibits the development of the root system. If tap water is used, it must be left for several days.
Cabbage is not picky about the method of watering. Any available method will do.
The following irrigation methods are distinguished:
- Traditional. Suitable for those who visit the site regularly and the soil is fertile and loose. With this method, cabbage is watered with a hose or watering can. The traditional method is good if the bed is small.
- Rain. A special sprinkler system supplies a stream of water under upward pressure. The method is suitable for large areas. It is used only early in the morning or evening, as water settles on the leaves.
- Drip. Suitable for those who cannot visit the dacha often. The drip irrigation system maintains soil moisture.
In August
Water for cabbage in August is very important. This is due to the fact that the heads of cabbage begin to fill up during this period.
In August, cabbage is watered once every 5 days. Use 10-12 liters of water per head of cabbage.
In September
Watering cabbage in September is carried out once every 2-3 days if the month is dry.For each bush use 10 liters of water. For cauliflower - 5 l.
In October
The procedure is not carried out in October. Early varieties stop watering 14 days before harvest, and late varieties - a month.
Caring for cabbage in autumn
In autumn, cabbage requires care, just like in summer. The following activities are carried out:
- Weed removal.
- Pollination with ash. This is both a fertilizer and a pest control product.
- Application of phosphorus-potassium fertilizers. They improve the taste and increase the shelf life of the vegetable.
- Fight against aphids using a soap solution.
When the heads of cabbage become elastic, they are cut off with a sharp knife, leaving a stalk of no more than 3 cm.
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Conclusion
Watering plays a primary role in obtaining a rich cabbage harvest. It is important to follow the basic rules. They depend on the type of plant, soil type, growing season and other factors. If you follow the rules of watering, the harvest will be good and of high quality.