Plant Cole Crops Now!

Young broccoli plants

September is prime time to set out transplants of cabbage, kale, collards, broccoli, and cauliflower, a group of crops collectively known as the cole crops. If you have tried these crops in the spring and failed, be sure try again this fall. Cole crops thrive in the consistently cool temperatures of autumn and do not bolt (go to flower) as they often do in spring.

Young plants are currently available from most local garden centers and nurseries. Plant in a sunny area with well drained soil. Incorporate compost into the soil before planting and soil test to determine if lime or nutrients need to be added.  

Make sure to keep newly set out plants well watered and apply an organic or slow release fertilizer at planting time. In addition, a dose of liquid fertilizer or compost tea at planting time will help new transplants establish quickly. Learn more about growing each of these crops by reading the whole article posted on the Pender Cooperative Extension website: http://pender.ces.ncsu.edu/2012/09/plant-cole-crops-now-2/