In zone 5, set cabbage transplants outside around April 10, about four weeks before your last spring frost. Start seeds indoors from February 27 to March 13. For a fall crop, transplant by about July 31.
Cabbage dates for your ZIP code
Planting times based on university extension guidance (UNH, Cornell, Purdue, Minnesota, Nebraska and UMass Extension). Frost dates from NOAA 1991–2020 U.S. Climate Normals, nearest weather station. Zones derived from the 2023 USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map data (PRISM Climate Group, Oregon State University). This is not the official USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map.
Cabbage timing in zone 5
| Task | When |
|---|---|
| Start indoors | February 27 – March 13 |
| Transplant outside | April 10 |
| First harvest | June 14 – June 29 |
| Transplant for fall by | July 31 |
| Start fall cabbage | Midsummer, in a shaded seedbed |
| Harvest | When heads are firm, before they split |
Most of zone 5 sees its last spring frost between May 2 and May 17 (typical May 8) and its first fall frost between September 28 and October 7 (typical October 2). Hardened cabbage transplants tolerate frost, but weeks of 35–45 °F weather can make them bolt. The tool above uses the weather station closest to your ZIP code.
Why cabbage is planted early
Cabbage is a cool-season crop, and hardened transplants tolerate frost. Heads form best in mild weather, so early varieties go out about four weeks before the last spring frost and mature before summer heat. Late varieties are started in midsummer and form their heads in fall.
Best cabbage varieties for zone 5
Cabbage does well in the cool weather of zone 5. Choose by size and use:
- Early cabbage: small heads of 1–3 pounds that mature before summer heat.
- Late cabbage: large heads of 4–8 pounds that form in cool fall weather and store well.
- Red cabbage: smaller, denser heads with a slightly peppery flavor.
- Savoy cabbage: crinkly blue-green leaves with a milder flavor.
Look for yellows-resistant (YR) varieties if fusarium wilt has been a problem.
How to plant cabbage
- Start seeds indoors ¼–½ inch deep, or in a shaded seedbed for fall plantings.
- Harden off transplants before planting out.
- Space plants 12–24 inches apart: closer for small early heads, wider for large late ones.
- Transplant on a cloudy day or in the evening.
- Keep the soil evenly moist for steady growth.
Zone 5 cabbage tips
- Harden off transplants. Hardened plants handle frost, but long spells of 35–45 °F can still trigger bolting.
- Space for the size you want. Closer spacing gives smaller heads; early varieties can go 12 inches apart.
- Prevent splitting. Mature heads split when they take up a lot of water at once. Harvest promptly after heavy rain.
- Watch for cabbage worms, and check under the leaves for caterpillars.
Harvesting cabbage
Harvest when the heads are solid and firm to hand pressure, before they crack. Cut close to the base, leaving the loose outer leaves. If a head splits, harvest it right away. Store uncut heads unwashed in a loose plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Cabbage planting dates in nearby zones
See dates for every zone on the cabbage planting guide, or build a full schedule with the planting calendar.
Frequently asked questions
Is it too late to plant cabbage in zone 5 in April?
For early cabbage, it is getting late. Plant a late variety instead: it forms its head in cool fall weather.
Why are my cabbage heads splitting?
Mature, solid heads split when they absorb a lot of water quickly, often after heavy rain. Harvest as soon as heads are firm.
Can cabbage handle frost?
Yes. Hardened cabbage transplants tolerate frost and go out about four weeks before your last spring frost.
Why did my cabbage bolt?
Long exposure to 35–45 °F weather can trigger a flower stalk. Avoid planting too early, and protect plants during long cold spells.
How do I stop cabbage from splitting?
Harvest as soon as heads are firm. Mature heads split when they take up a lot of water quickly, often after heavy rain.
Sources. Planting dates use the median frost dates of each USDA zone, calculated from NOAA climate data for every ZIP code in the zone.