Sugarloaf cabbage is an easy-to-grow, cone-shaped variety celebrated for its sweet, mild taste and crunchy texture. Its unique appearance and flavour profile make it a standout in the cabbage family and a welcome change from traditional round-headed varieties. With faster maturity and high planting efficiency, it’s a favourite for both home growers and market gardeners looking to maximise space and turnaround. These well-established seedlings are ready for transplanting and provide a reliable, high-performing crop across multiple seasons.

🌱 Growing Characteristics:

Sugarloaf cabbages grow into compact, conical heads weighing around 1–2.2kg, slightly smaller than traditional cabbages but denser and better filled. Their upright shape allows for closer spacing in beds prepared like standard cabbage, increasing planting density without compromising quality. The variety is slow to bolt and shows strong resistance to tip burn, ensuring consistency and reliability even in changeable conditions.

🌡️ Weather Considerations:

Perfectly suited to cooler growing conditions, Sugarloaf thrives in full sun to partial shade. In Victorian winters, expect maturity in around 70 days from transplanting, while in warmer months, this drops to just 50 days—nearly half the time required for traditional cabbage. Mulching helps retain moisture and regulate temperature during seasonal transitions.

🦋 Pollination:

As a leafy vegetable, Sugarloaf doesn’t require pollination. However, maintaining airflow between plants is essential to reduce the risk of rot and fungal issues, especially during wetter months or when growing at higher densities.

🌿 Plant Care After Transplanting:

🌱 Seedling Height: 10–15cm, including the root system
📏 Spacing: Rows 40–60cm apart, plants spaced 30–40cm apart for compact growth and airflow

💧 Feed with QPS Pro Feeder:

Feed weekly or as needed using QPS Pro Feeder to encourage lush leaf development and dense head formation. Start with a nitrogen-rich mix early on, followed by a balanced application including phosphorus and potassium as the heads begin to form. The Pro Feeder delivers targeted nutrition without overfeeding, promoting even growth and flavour.

🥗 Harvest Time:

Harvest approximately 50–70 days from transplanting, depending on the season and climate. Heads should feel firm, full, and reach a mature weight between 1kg and 2.2kg. Best harvested early in the day to lock in maximum crunch and freshness.

🌱 Preferred Growing Conditions:

🌞 Transplanting Site: Choose a well-drained, sunny position with access to consistent moisture.
🌱 Soil: Rich in organic matter with neutral to slightly alkaline pH levels is ideal.
🌬️ Air Circulation: Space plants well to allow for airflow and reduce disease risk.
🌾 Mulching: Essential for regulating soil temperatures and conserving moisture.
💧 Watering: Water deeply and evenly at the base—avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf disease.

🔍 Little-Known Facts:

• Sugarloaf’s shape channels water away from the heart, helping reduce internal rot.

• Because of its dense fill and quick maturity, it’s a great crop for succession planting.

• This variety is often used in commercial markets as a “single-use” cabbage—perfectly portioned for one or two meals with no waste.

🍽️ Cooking & Serving Suggestions:

• Raw: Shred finely for a naturally sweet, crunchy coleslaw—pairs beautifully with apples, citrus, or fennel.

• Roasted: Wedges tossed with olive oil, garlic, and herbs roast to a caramelised sweetness in under 20 minutes.

• Fermented: Excellent for small-batch sauerkraut due to its low water content and dense leaves.

• Stir-fried: Flash fry with garlic, sesame oil, and a splash of tamari for a quick and flavourful side.

• Stuffed: Leaves are perfect for rolling around grains, mince, or legumes after a quick blanch.