When to Plant Savoy Cabbage in Washington County, AL
Savoy cabbage has crinkled, deeply veined leaves that form looser heads than regular cabbage. It has a milder, sweeter flavor and is more cold-tolerant.
Washington County, Alabama is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 12 and the first fall frost is November 13, giving you a growing season of approximately 246 days.
At an elevation of 419 feet, Washington County receives approximately 54.8 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 97°F, so Savoy Cabbage may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Clay soil retains moisture well for Savoy Cabbage, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Savoy Cabbage root diseases.
Washington County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.3-6.6
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
Savoy Cabbage Planting Timeline — Washington County, AL
Savoy Cabbage Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 5 | Feb 5 – Feb 19 |
| Transplant Outdoors | March 12 | Mar 12 – Mar 26 |
| Direct Sow | February 26 | Feb 26 – Mar 19 |
| Fall Sowing | September 4 | Sep 4 – Sep 18 |
| Harvest | May 21 | May 21 – Jul 16 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| March | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| April | — |
| 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
70–110 days
Soil pH
6 – 7.5
USDA Zone
Zone 8a
Growing Season
246 days
Growing Tips for Washington County
Start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before last frost. Savoy cabbage is more forgiving of temperature fluctuations than smooth-leaved types. Excellent for stuffed cabbage rolls.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Savoy Cabbage in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Savoy Cabbage in Washington County, AL?
Washington County is in Zone 8a with an average last frost of March 12. Plan your Savoy Cabbage planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Washington County, AL?
Washington County, Alabama is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 12 and first fall frost is November 13.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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