Red Acre Cabbage

Brassica oleracea ‘Red Acre’

Characteristics

Culture

Red Acre Cabbage is an heirloom, open-pollinated variety that provides excellent storage capabilities. Plants produce beautiful, reddish-purple heads that are compact and require less space than traditional green cabbage varieties. This makes it a great variety for smaller gardens or intensive planting applications. Red Acre Cabbage heads are typically about 2-4 pounds and 6-7″ in diameter. Heads are also resistant to splitting and maintain their spherical shape throughout the growing cycle. 

Cabbage will grow best in areas where weeds are kept to a minimum. Cabbage is moderately frosttolerant and performs better when planted in cooler weather. Cabbage will tend to bolt in warmer temperatures. Plant cabbage early in spring for a late spring/early summer harvest, or plant in late summer/early fall for a fall harvest. Cabbage are heavy feeders and require a considerable amount of nitrogen for larger heads. For best results, inject or soil drench with a balanced fertilizer at least once every two weeks. If smaller heads are desired, less fertilizer will be adequate.

Red Acre Cabbage may be direct-seeded or transplanted. Transplanting allows for more consistent plant spacing and prevents seedlings from competing with weeds in the early stages of the plant. 

Noteworthy Characteristics

Red Acre matures early and is an appealing purplish color. It is an excellent storage variety of red cabbage.

Problems

Click here for more information about disease issues and pests.

Uses

Red Acre is crunchy and delicious prepared raw or cooked.  It tastes great for slaw, salad, and makes excellent sauerkraut.