Cabbage illustration 🥬

🥬 Growing Cabbage in Zone 3a

Zone 3a has harsh winters and a short growing season. Start Cabbage early indoors to maximize your harvest window. Last frost: May 22. First frost: Sep 12.

Planting Calendar

Indoor
Outdoor
Harvest
Apr 10Sep 12

Season: May 22 – Sep 12 (113 days)

Zone3a
Last FrostMay 22
First FrostSep 12
Season Length113 days
Days to Harvest80
SunFull Sun
Frost ToleranceModerate
Spacing1/sqft (12" apart)

When to Plant Cabbage in Zone 3a

Start Seeds Indoors: Apr 10

Start Cabbage seeds indoors around Apr 10 (6 weeks before last frost). Optimal germination temperature: 70°F. Germinates in 5–10 days.

Transplant Outdoors: May 1

Transplant Cabbage seedlings outdoors after May 1. Wait until soil temperature reaches 45°F. Space plants at 1/sqft (12" apart). Harden off plants for a week before moving outside.

Harvest: Jul 5

First harvest approximately Jul 5 (~65 days from transplant). Continue harvesting until first frost (Sep 12).

Fall Planting: Jun 20

For a fall harvest, plant Cabbage around Jun 20 (12 weeks before first frost).

Companion Planting

✅ Potatoes✅ Mint✅ Dill✅ Onions✅ Celery
❌ Beans❌ Tomatoes❌ Strawberries

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Cabbage in Zone 3a?

Start Cabbage seeds indoors around Apr 10. Transplant outdoors after May 1. Expect first harvest around Jul 5.

What is the last frost date for Zone 3a?

The average last spring frost date for Zone 3a is May 22. The first fall frost averages Sep 12, giving a 113-day growing season.

Can I grow Cabbage in Zone 3a?

Yes. Cabbage needs 80 days to harvest. Zone 3a has a 113-day growing season, which is sufficient.

What is the best month to plant Cabbage in Zone 3a?

The best time to start Cabbage in Zone 3a is Apr. Begin seeds indoors around Apr 10, then transplant outdoors after the last frost date of May 22.

What companion plants grow well with Cabbage?

Good companion plants for Cabbage include Potatoes, Mint, Dill, Onions, Celery. Avoid planting Cabbage near Beans, Tomatoes, Strawberries.

How long does Cabbage take to harvest?

Cabbage takes approximately 80 days from planting to harvest. In Zone 3a, expect your first harvest around Jul 5.

Plan Your Cabbage Garden

Track Cabbage from seed to harvest with personalized frost dates, watering recommendations, and companion planting visualization.

Start Free Cabbage Growing Guide