When to Plant Cabbage in Chowan County, NC
Cabbage is a versatile cool-season crop that forms dense, leafy heads in green, red, or savoy varieties. It is a staple for coleslaw, sauerkraut, and many global cuisines.
Chowan County, North Carolina is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 26 and the first fall frost is November 15, giving you a growing season of approximately 234 days.
At an elevation of 669 feet, Chowan County receives approximately 54.2 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 95°F, so Cabbage may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Clay soil retains moisture well for Cabbage, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Cabbage root diseases.
Chowan County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.5-6.2
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Plant Water Budget
Cabbage Planting Timeline — Chowan County, NC
Cabbage Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 19 | Feb 19 – Mar 5 |
| Transplant Outdoors | March 26 | Mar 26 – Apr 9 |
| Direct Sow | March 12 | Mar 12 – Apr 2 |
| Fall Sowing | September 6 | Sep 6 – Sep 20 |
| Harvest | May 28 | May 28 – Jul 23 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Start Indoors |
| March | Start Indoors Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | — |
| September | Fall Sowing |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
60–100 days
Soil pH
6 – 7.5
USDA Zone
Zone 8a
Growing Season
234 days
Growing Tips for Chowan County
Start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before last frost. Space plants 18-24 inches apart. Keep soil evenly moist to prevent heads from splitting.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Cabbage in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Cabbage in Chowan County, NC?
Chowan County is in Zone 8a with an average last frost of March 26. Plan your Cabbage planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Chowan County, NC?
Chowan County, North Carolina is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 26 and first fall frost is November 15.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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