Chinese cabbage is one of the vegetables that is only harvested late in the year. Chinese cabbage can still be picked even after the first frost. Find out below when you can harvest your Chinese cabbage and what you should pay attention to.
When is the best time to harvest Chinese cabbage?
The best harvest time for Chinese cabbage is between October and November, although it can also be harvested in December. The harvest takes place approx. 80 to 90 days after sowing, i.e. when sowing in July. Chinese cabbage can tolerate frost down to -6 degrees.
Chinese cabbage is harvested in autumn
The main harvest time for Chinese cabbage is in October and November. In rare cases, the contract can be struck as early as September. Since Chinese cabbage can withstand frost down to -6 degrees, it can also be harvested in December. However, it should not be picked when there is frost.
Exact harvest time
Chinese cabbage is harvested 80 to 90 days after sowing. Chinese cabbage is sown in July; Sowing earlier would cause the Chinese cabbage to bloom and the cabbage would have fewer nutrients and flavors. The leaves should be tightly closed when harvested and no flowers should be visible yet.
How to harvest Chinese cabbage
Chinese cabbage is cut just above the ground with a sharp knife. You may be able to remove the outer leaves, for example if they are very dirty or tough. If you leave the roots standing, you can enjoy an early first harvest and a subsequent harvest because Chinese cabbage will sprout again. It is important that the root remains intact and that you continue to water your Chinese cabbage when it is dry.
Store Chinese cabbage
If you want to store the Chinese cabbage for a longer period of time, you can dig it up including the roots:
- Clean the Chinese cabbage thoroughly of soil and insects and wrap the entire Chinese cabbage in newspaper.
- Wash your Chinese cabbage just before eating! Otherwise, the wetness will cause it to rot.
- Place the cabbage loosely in wooden boxes in the pantry or basement.
Tip
Alternatively, you can freeze the Chinese cabbage or store it in the vegetable compartment in the refrigerator.
