Ages 18-24? Explore Prime for Young Adults and see if you are eligible

If you are wondering about the best season to plant cabbage, the answer depends on your climate and how much patience you have. Cabbage is a cool-season crop that thrives in moderate temperatures and can even handle a light frost. Many gardeners find that early spring (as soon as the soil can be worked) or late summer (for a fall harvest) gives the best results. The key is to avoid the heat of midsummer, which can cause bitter flavor or bolting. Whether you are growing in raised beds, containers, or traditional rows, understanding timing makes a huge difference in head quality.

In this guide, we look at 8 cabbage seed options (priced between $2.49 and $9.99) that work well for spring, summer, and fall plantings. Brands like The Seed Plant, IslasGardenSeedsCompany, SurvivalGardenSeeds and more offer reliable varieties for home gardeners. We also answer common questions about planting schedules and care. For more advice on feeding your garden plants, check out our related article. No matter your skill level, choosing the best season to plant cabbage sets you up for success.

1
Prime Best Seller

The Seed Plant All Seasons Cabbage Seeds

The Seed Plant
9.5 /10
TYG Score
TYG Score is calculated based on product ratings, reviews, and sales performance to help you make informed purchasing decisions. Learn more ›
These All Seasons Cabbage Seeds from The Seed Plant offer a reliable, early harvest with 85% germination and versatility for spring, summer, or fall planting. Ideal for home gardeners seeking a steady supply of flavorful cabbage.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 85% germination rate offers a good success rate
  • Suitable for spring, summer, and fall crops
  • Reaches maturity in 62 days for early harvest
  • Non-GMO, ideal for natural gardening
  • 500 seeds provide plenty for multiple plantings

Cons

  • No customer reviews yet to gauge real-world performance
  • Packaged in a simple envelope that isn’t resealable
  • Requires outdoor planting and moderate watering, not for indoor use
Detailed Review

The Seed Plant's All Seasons Cabbage Seeds are a straightforward choice for home gardeners who want a dependable cabbage variety. This pack contains 500 non-GMO seeds, each with an 85% germination rate and a maturity window of just 62 days. The brand markets it as reliable for spring, summer, and fall planting, making it a flexible option for those who like to sow in succession.

The standout feature here is the triple-season versatility. You can plant in early spring for a summer harvest, again in late spring for a fall crop, or even start in summer for an autumn pickup. The 62-day maturity is brisk, so you won't be waiting forever to enjoy fresh cabbage. The 85% germination rate is solid for a seed pack, though it's not the highest on the market.

In terms of design, the seeds come in a simple envelope, which is fine for storage but not resealable. You'll want to transfer any unused seeds to an airtight container. The seeds themselves are untreated and non-GMO, which appeals to organic-minded gardeners, though they aren't certified organic. The moderate watering and outdoor-only requirement are typical for cabbage and easy to manage with basic garden care.

One drawback is the lack of customer reviews. Without feedback from other buyers, you're relying solely on the product description. Additionally, the seeds may need careful soil preparation and consistent watering to hit that 85% rate. Enthusiastic beginners might find the lack of guidance in the packaging a bit sparse.

Overall, this is a solid value pack for cabbage lovers who want to grow their own. The combination of multi-season adaptability, fast maturity, and non-GMO sourcing makes it worth trying, especially at this price. Just be prepared to provide consistent care and careful storage for the best results.

2
Prime Editor's Pick

22 Winter Seeds Variety Pack for Planting

VerdantVigor
9.7 /10
TYG Score
TYG Score is calculated based on product ratings, reviews, and sales performance to help you make informed purchasing decisions. Learn more ›
This is a generous winter seed collection from VerdantVigor, offering 22 heirloom varieties with over 10,000 seeds. Perfect for gardeners who want a reliable, non-GMO mix that thrives in cooler weather and can be grown indoors or out.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Generous seed count and variety for the price
  • Non-GMO and heirloom seeds you can save for future seasons
  • High germination rate with practical soaking instructions
  • Versatile for indoor or outdoor use in cool weather
  • Lightweight and easy to store at 0.5 pounds

Cons

  • Seeds are packed for winter growing, not ideal for warm-season crops
  • Some hard-coated seeds need longer soaking for best results
  • No customer reviews yet to confirm real-world performance
Detailed Review

This winter seed variety pack from VerdantVigor is a solid choice for anyone looking to keep their garden going through the cooler months. With 22 heirloom varieties and over 10,000 seeds, it's a practical, non-GMO collection that covers everything from lettuce and kale to broccoli and spinach. The seeds are sourced from the USA and are designed to be saved for future planting, which is a nice touch for sustainability-minded gardeners.

The standout feature here is the germination support. The pack includes detailed tips for soaking seeds in warm water, which is especially helpful for hard-coated varieties like cilantro and rosemary. While it takes a bit of extra prep, following those steps should give you a strong start. The seeds are also chosen for winter growth, so they handle cool temperatures well, whether you're planting in a backyard garden, on a windowsill, or in a hydroponic setup.

At 0.5 pounds, the pack is lightweight and easy to store. The included varieties are diverse enough to keep your meals interesting, and the high germination rate is a plus. Just keep in mind that this set is specifically for winter and fall planting, so it won't be your go-to for summer crops. Also, since there are no customer reviews yet, you're relying on the brand's claims, but the detailed instructions suggest they know what they're doing.

Overall, this is a good value for the price. It's perfect for new gardeners who want a straightforward winter mix or seasoned growers looking to expand their cool-season options. The non-GMO, heirloom quality and USA sourcing add to its appeal, making it a practical, thoughtful gift for any gardening enthusiast.

3
Prime Limited Time

Survival Garden Seeds Cabbage Seeds Variety Pack

SurvivalGardenSeeds
9.7 /10
TYG Score
TYG Score is calculated based on product ratings, reviews, and sales performance to help you make informed purchasing decisions. Learn more ›
This cabbage seed variety pack from SurvivalGardenSeeds offers five heirloom non-GMO types for home gardeners, with high germination rates and diverse kitchen uses. Ideal for beginners and seasoned growers seeking reliable, open-pollinated cabbage seeds.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Wide variety of cabbage types in a single pack
  • High germination rate ensures successful planting
  • Easy to grow in many climates and garden setups
  • Affordable price for five heirloom seed packets
  • Non-GMO and untreated for health-conscious gardeners

Cons

  • Some customers reported missing packets in their order, though this appears rare
  • Only includes cabbage seeds, so gardeners looking for a broader vegetable mix will need additional packs
  • Cabbage can be susceptible to pests and may require extra care like row covers or companion planting
Detailed Review

The Survival Garden Seeds Cabbage Variety Pack is a practical choice for home gardeners who want to grow a range of cabbage types from one purchase. The set includes five heirloom non-GMO varieties: Red Acre, Golden Acre, Jersey Wakefield, Early Round Dutch, and Michihili Napa. Each packet is packed with untreated seeds that have tested well for germination, as reflected in the strong customer ratings. This collection is aimed at anyone from beginners to experienced growers who value food security, kitchen diversity, and sustainable seed sourcing.

Standout features include the variety itself. You get green, red, and napa cabbages, which opens up many cooking possibilities from coleslaw to sauerkraut to stir-fries. The seeds are open-pollinated, so you can save seeds from your harvest for future seasons. Customer reviews consistently praise the high germination rate, with many noting that nearly every seed they planted sprouted. The company provides detailed growing instructions on each packet, covering planting depth, soil temperature, sunlight, and moisture needs. This makes the pack especially useful for gardeners who want clear guidance without having to research each variety separately.

The seeds are designed for outdoor planting in full sun and loamy soil with moderate watering. They can be grown in raised beds, containers, or traditional plots across a wide range of USDA zones (2 through 11). The 18-inch plant height and compact, disease-resistant characteristics make them manageable even in smaller spaces. The brand is a family-owned US company that tests for quality, which adds confidence in the product's freshness. There are no claims of being tested in labs, but the reviews indicate real-world success in home gardens.

One drawback is that a small number of customers reported receiving only one packet instead of the full set, which may be a shipping error rather than a recurring issue. Also, because this pack is cabbage-only, those wanting a mix of vegetables will need to purchase other seed collections. Additionally, cabbage can attract pests like cabbage worms, so some gardeners may need to use row covers or natural pest controls. These are minor concerns compared to the overall value and performance.

Overall, this cabbage seed variety pack delivers on its promise: a diverse, reliable, and affordable way to grow your own cabbage. The high germination rate and positive customer feedback make it a solid investment for anyone looking to add fresh cabbage to their garden and kitchen. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned gardener, this pack offers a good balance of variety, quality, and ease of use.

Specifications

Brand: Survival Garden Seeds

Number of Varieties: 5

Seed Types: Heirloom, Non-GMO, Open-pollinated, Untreated

Varieties Included: Red Acre, Golden Acre, Jersey Wakefield, Early Round Dutch, Michihili Napa

USDA Hardiness Zones: 2 to 11

Sunlight Requirement: Full sun

Soil Type: Loam soil

Moisture Needs: Moderate watering

Expected Plant Height: 18 inches

Planting Period: Spring and fall

Indoor/Outdoor Use: Outdoor

Special Features: Compact, disease resistant, high germination rate, low maintenance, pest resistant

Product Care: Detailed growing instructions included for each variety

4
Prime Top Rated

Gardeners Basics Red Acre Cabbage Seeds

GardenersBasics
9.6 /10
TYG Score
TYG Score is calculated based on product ratings, reviews, and sales performance to help you make informed purchasing decisions. Learn more ›
Gardeners Basics Red Acre Cabbage seeds deliver reliable germination and sweet, non-bitter flavor in a hardy, fast-growing heirloom variety. With over 225 seeds per packet, it's a great choice for home gardeners wanting to grow cabbage across multiple seasons.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Excellent germination rate from trusted brand.
  • Sweet, non-bitter taste suitable for many dishes.
  • Heirloom seeds allow seed saving for future seasons.
  • Large packet with over 225 seeds, great value.

Cons

  • Requires full sun and regular watering for best results.
  • Growth can be slower in colder or very hot conditions.
  • Some gardeners may find cabbage pests challenging.
Detailed Review

Gardeners Basics Red Acre Cabbage seeds are a tried-and-true heirloom variety that home gardeners have relied on for years. Each packet contains at least 1 gram of non-GMO, open-pollinated seeds - that's roughly 225 seeds - giving you plenty of plants for multiple gardens or succession planting. These seeds are grown and packaged in the USA by a small family business, and the water-resistant packets include clear planting instructions.

What really sets these seeds apart is their performance. Gardeners consistently report a near 100% germination rate, sprouting within days of planting. The Red Acre cabbage is known for being fast-growing and hardy, producing firm, reddish-purple heads that reach about 7 inches across and weigh around 3 pounds. The flavor is sweet and non-bitter, making it excellent raw in salads and coleslaw, or cooked in stir-fries, kimchi, and even corned beef and cabbage.

These seeds thrive in full sun and regular moisture, and they can be planted from February through August in USDA zones 3 through 10. That means you can enjoy fresh cabbage in spring, summer, fall, and even winter in milder climates. Because they are heirloom, you can save seeds from your best plants to grow again next season, adding a layer of food security to your garden.

One potential drawback is that like all cabbage, Red Acre can attract pests such as cabbage worms or aphids, so you may need to use row covers or organic pest control. Also, head size can vary depending on growing conditions, but with proper care you'll get a good harvest. If you prefer starting with transplants, you might want to start seeds indoors first.

Overall, Gardeners Basics Red Acre Cabbage seeds are a solid investment for any vegetable garden. They offer reliability, great flavor, and the flexibility to grow across multiple seasons. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, these seeds are easy to grow and rewarding to harvest.

5
Prime

Axel's Garden Seeds Non-GMO Heirloom Copenhagen

Axel's Garden Seeds
9.6 /10
TYG Score
TYG Score is calculated based on product ratings, reviews, and sales performance to help you make informed purchasing decisions. Learn more ›
This packet of 200 Copenhagen cabbage seeds from Axel's Garden Seeds is a non-GMO heirloom variety that's easy to grow and comes with clear instructions. It's a solid choice for home gardeners who want reliable germination and medium-sized green heads, though a few buyers did report germination issues.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • High germination rate and strong seedling growth reported by many buyers
  • Heirloom, non-GMO seeds you can save for future seasons
  • Detailed planting instructions included on the packet
  • Good value with 200 seeds at an affordable price
  • Hardy plants that thrive in full sun with moderate watering

Cons

  • Some buyers reported that seeds failed to germinate or produced weeds instead of cabbage
  • The Copenhagen variety may not be as widely known as other cabbage types, so results can vary by climate and soil conditions
Detailed Review

Axel's Garden Seeds Copenhagen Cabbage Seeds offer a straightforward way to grow your own cabbage at home. This packet contains 200 non-GMO heirloom seeds, which is enough for a decent-sized garden patch or to share with friends. The variety is Copenhagen, known for producing medium-sized green heads that work well in coleslaw, sauerkraut, or simply steamed. The seeds are intended for outdoor planting in full sun with moderate watering in well-drained soil.

One of the standout features is the germination rate. The product specifications highlight a high germination rate, and many user reviews confirm that seeds sprouted quickly and grew into healthy plants. Gardeners reported seeing their cabbage reach about an inch tall in the garden and eventually harvested sizable heads. The included instructions on the packet are clear and detailed, making this a good choice even if you're new to growing cabbage. The seeds are also heirloom, meaning you can save seeds from your harvest for next season.

In terms of build quality, the seeds come in a colorful 3x4.5-inch packet with a full-color illustration and growing instructions on the back. It's compact and easy to store. The brand, Axel's Garden Seeds, offers a range of fruit, flower, herb, and vegetable seeds, all hand-packed. They also provide customer support if any issues arise during growing.

That said, there are a few drawbacks to consider. A small number of reviewers reported that seeds never germinated or that only weeds grew from the packet. One user who considered themselves experienced with gardening was disappointed. Another noted that their plants started but then stagnated after six weeks, despite prepped soil. These issues could be due to seed quality variation, improper planting depth (1/4 inch), or specific soil conditions. While most feedback is positive, it's worth planting a few extra seeds to ensure you get a full stand.

Overall, the Axel's Garden Seeds Copenhagen Cabbage Seeds are a reliable, affordable option for home gardeners who want to try a classic heirloom cabbage. The high germination rate and clear instructions are big pluses, but be prepared to test a few seeds first if you're in an area with less-than-ideal growing conditions. For the price, it's a solid value that should reward you with tasty homegrown cabbage in about two months.

6
Prime

Savoy Cabbage Seeds - 500+ Non-GMO Heirloom

IslasGardenSeedsCompany
9.6 /10
TYG Score
TYG Score is calculated based on product ratings, reviews, and sales performance to help you make informed purchasing decisions. Learn more ›
These Savoy cabbage seeds from Isla's Garden Seeds offer a sweet, mild flavor and beautiful crinkled leaves, ideal for cool-season gardens. While some customers report fewer seeds than advertised and mixed germination, the heirloom non-GMO quality and family-business story appeal to gardeners seeking a unique cabbage variety for slaws and sautés.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Delicious sweet flavor that's versatile in the kitchen
  • Attractive crinkled leaves for gourmet presentations
  • Non-GMO heirloom quality from a trusted small business
  • Good germination potential when started properly indoors or direct sown
  • Suitable for USDA zones 3-9, adaptable to many climates

Cons

  • Some customers report receiving significantly fewer than 500 seeds
  • Mixed germination results; a few users had seeds that didn't sprout
  • Non-refundable policy can be frustrating if seeds underperform
Detailed Review

If you're looking to add something special to your cool-season garden, the Savoy Cabbage Seeds from Isla's Garden Seeds are worth a look. This heirloom variety (Brassica oleracea var. capitata) is known for its deeply crinkled leaves and a sweet, mild flavor that sets it apart from standard green cabbage. It's a great choice for home gardeners who enjoy fresh slaws, sautés, or stuffed cabbage dishes, and it performs best in the cooler temperatures of spring and fall.

The standout feature here is the texture and taste. The crinkled leaves aren't just pretty; they hold onto dressings and sauces beautifully, making salads more interesting. The sweetness is noticeable even when raw, and it becomes even more pronounced when cooked. These seeds are non-GMO and heirloom, sourced from family farms in the Pacific Northwest, and the company itself is a small family business from Idaho. That backstory adds a nice touch for those who like supporting local or small-scale agriculture.

In terms of performance, results are a bit mixed based on customer feedback. Some gardeners report excellent germination and healthy plants when started indoors under lights or direct sown in well-draining soil. However, a few reviews mention that the seed count was lower than the advertised 500+, and others had trouble with germination. It's worth noting that proper planting depth (1/4 to 1/2 inch), consistent moisture, and full sun are key to success. The seeds take 7-14 days to sprout and need about 80-100 days to reach maturity.

On the downside, the inconsistency in seed count and germination is a real concern. A couple of customers counted roughly half the promised seeds, and a few got no sprouts at all. Also, the company's non-refundable policy means you're taking a bit of a gamble. That said, the positive reviews show that when conditions are right, these seeds produce vigorous plants with lovely heads.

Overall, Isla's Garden Savoy Cabbage Seeds offer a unique, flavorful cabbage variety with a lot of culinary potential. If you're an experienced gardener who can handle a little variability, they're a solid pick. But if you need guaranteed results or a precise seed count, you might want to look elsewhere or start a few extra seeds just in case. For the price, the flavor and heirloom quality make them a worthwhile experiment for any cool-season garden.

7
Prime

1000 All Season Cabbage Seeds - Non GMO Heirloom

Generic
9.5 /10
TYG Score
TYG Score is calculated based on product ratings, reviews, and sales performance to help you make informed purchasing decisions. Learn more ›
These 1000 All Season cabbage seeds from Great Basin Supply are a heat-resistant heirloom variety ideal for warm climates and adaptable for northern late planting. The 3.5g packet yields firm, 10-11 inch heads that perform well in hot, dry conditions.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Excellent heat and drought tolerance for challenging climates
  • Large, uniform heads that are easy to harvest and market-ready
  • Adaptable to a wide range of USDA zones and planting seasons
  • Non GMO and heirloom with USA harvesting for quality assurance
  • Attracts beneficial pollinators to the garden

Cons

  • One customer reported poor germination; results may vary with seed age or storage conditions
  • Brand is generic with limited customer support or warranty
  • Seeds are small and require careful handling during planting
Detailed Review

If you're looking for a cabbage variety that can handle the heat while still delivering solid, dependable heads, the 1000 All Season Cabbage seeds are worth considering. Grown and harvested in the USA, these non GMO, heirloom seeds are designed for regions with moderate to warm summers, but they also do well in northern areas as a late-season crop. With about 3.5 grams of seeds per packet, you get plenty of material for a generous home garden or small market plot.

The standout feature here is heat resistance. This cabbage was once popular in South Texas for early planting, and it resists yellows, a common disease in warm soils. Despite the heat, the plants form heads that are very hard and solid, averaging 10-11 inches across. They're round with a flattened top, ready to harvest nearly as early as Early Summer Cabbage but with much larger size. The plants themselves grow 12-14 inches tall and spread 30-36 inches wide, so give them room to thrive.

Design-wise, these are straightforward seeds with no special coatings or treatments. They prefer full sun and sandy soil with moderate watering, making them ideal for drier gardens. The variety is also noted for attracting pollinators, which is a nice bonus for overall garden health. The germination rate is listed as high, though one reviewer reported a disappointing experience, so it is possible that seed viability can vary depending on storage. Storing them in a cool, dark place before planting is recommended.

On the downside, this is a generic brand, so there is no dedicated customer support or fancy packaging. The seeds come in a simple paper envelope, which is fine for most gardeners but may not appeal to those expecting a premium presentation. Also, the 1-star review calling the seeds "useless" suggests that not every packet performs perfectly, but that is true for many seed brands. Overall, though, the product data and descriptions point to a variety that has proven itself over time.

My verdict: For gardeners in hot, dry climates or anyone wanting a versatile cabbage that can be planted spring through fall, these All Season seeds are a solid choice. The value is excellent for the price, and the heirloom, non GMO status adds peace of mind. Just be prepared to handle small seeds carefully and to give them the sunny, well-drained spot they prefer. If you do that, you should be rewarded with a nice crop of firm, tasty cabbages.

8
Prime

Gaea's Blessing Seeds Chinese Cabbage Michihili

GaeasBlessing
9.5 /10
TYG Score
TYG Score is calculated based on product ratings, reviews, and sales performance to help you make informed purchasing decisions. Learn more ›
Gaea's Blessing Michihili Chinese Cabbage seeds produce a crisp, mild-flavored heirloom cabbage with a high 94% germination rate. A dual-purpose crop for salads or stir-fries, but some buyers report the plants don't match the Napa cabbage shown on the package.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • High germination rate (94%) gives you a strong start.
  • Versatile use: raw in salads or cooked in Asian dishes.
  • Heirloom, non-GMO seeds with easy-to-follow growing tips.
  • Produces large, dense heads up to 4.5 pounds.
  • Comes with a resealable bag for seed storage.

Cons

  • Several customers report the plant does not grow into Napa cabbage as pictured.
  • A few buyers experienced poor germination or no sprouts.
  • Return window is only 3 days, not enough time to verify the crop.
Detailed Review

Gaea's Blessing Michihili Chinese Cabbage seeds promise a crisp, mild heirloom cabbage that can be used fresh or cooked. The brand emphasizes freshness by donating unsold seeds each year, and the packet includes clear growing instructions. With a 94% germination rate, these seeds are designed to sprout reliably in spring or late summer.

The Michihili variety stands out for its loose-leaf head that resembles romaine lettuce. It's less fibrous than European cabbage and has a pleasant, subtle flavor. Gardeners can harvest baby greens early or wait for full-sized heads weighing up to 4.5 pounds. The seeds are non-GMO, open-pollinated, and untreated, which appeals to organic growers and seed savers.

However, some customer reviews raise serious concerns about authenticity. Multiple buyers report that the plants that grew did not match the Napa cabbage shown in the listing and on the package. A few received plants that were clearly a different variety. Others experienced no germination at all. While the seed quality appears good for many, the mislabeling issue is a risk.

Overall, if you're looking for a versatile Chinese cabbage seed with good germination and easy instructions, this product has potential. But be aware that you might not get the exact cabbage pictured. For best results, consider planting a few test seeds first and verify the crop before relying on it for a full harvest.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Season to Plant Cabbage

Here are the top questions gardeners ask when planning their cabbage planting times.

What is the best season to plant cabbage for a spring harvest?

For a spring harvest, start seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before your last frost date. Transplant seedlings outdoors when the soil temperature reaches at least 45°F. This gives cabbage the cool weather it loves before summer heat arrives. Many gardeners use early maturing varieties (like Golden Acre or Copenhagen) to get heads ready in about 60–70 days.

Can I plant cabbage in the fall? What is the best season to plant cabbage for a fall crop?

Yes, fall planting is often more forgiving than spring because the weather cools down as the cabbage grows. The best season for a fall crop is late summer, typically 8–10 weeks before your first expected frost. Direct sow seeds in July or August, and the heads will mature as temperatures drop. This timing works well for storage varieties like Red Acre or Savoy.

Does the best season to plant cabbage vary by climate zone?

Absolutely. In cool northern zones (USDA 3–5), spring planting is short and fall planting is preferred. In mild climates (zones 6–8), you can often plant both spring and fall crops. In warmer zones (9–11), fall and winter planting gives the best results since summer heat can stunt growth. Using heat-tolerant varieties like ‘All Seasons’ cabbage helps extend your window. For soil tips, see our guide to soil preparation.

What happens if I plant cabbage too late in the season?

Planting too late in spring means heads may form during hot weather, causing bitter taste, loose heads, or bolting (going to seed). For fall planting, waiting too long risks the heads not maturing before a hard freeze. Always check the days to maturity on your seed packet and count backward from your expected frost date. That way you choose the best season to plant cabbage for your specific garden.

Is there a best season to plant cabbage for beginners?

For new gardeners, early spring planting is easiest because you can start seeds indoors and control the environment. Fall planting is also beginner-friendly if you direct sow after the heat of summer. Either way, pick a reliable variety like Golden Acre or Copenhagen. Beginners should also pay attention to watering consistency to prevent heads from splitting. For more beginner advice, browse our plant care category.

Choosing the best season to plant cabbage is really about knowing your local climate and your variety’s needs. With the right timing and a quality seed pack, you will be rewarded with crisp, homegrown heads. Happy planting!