How to Grow Napa Cabbage
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Supplies You'll Need
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Plant Overview
Growing Requirements
Sun
Full Sun (6-8 hours)
Water
Regular (1-2 inches/week)
Spacing
18" apart
Depth
0.25" deep
Height
12-18"
Germination
4-7 days
Ready to Grow Napa Cabbage?
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Seed Saving Guide
ModerateWhen to Harvest Seed
Allow heads to bolt in spring heat. Harvest seed pods when tan and dry.
Processing
Thresh dried seed stalks, winnow to separate seeds.
Seed Viability
Up to 4 years when stored cool, dark, and dry.
Pro Tip
Brassica rapa — crosses with bok choy, turnip, and other rapa crops. Isolate by 300 feet.
Seed Storage Supplies
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Raised Bed Planting Guides
A 4×8 bed fits 14 plants of Napa Cabbage. See plant counts, spacing grids, and companion pairings for every bed size →
Napa Cabbage Planting Calendar by Zone
Napa Cabbage Planting Calendar by State
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Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Napa Cabbage? +
Start Napa Cabbage seeds indoors 6 weeks before your last frost date, then transplant outdoors 2 weeks after the last frost. Use the search on this page to find exact dates for your ZIP code or city.
How long does Napa Cabbage take to grow? +
Napa Cabbage typically matures in about 70 days from planting. Exact timing varies by variety, soil conditions, and local climate.
Should I start Napa Cabbage indoors or direct sow? +
Napa Cabbage should be started indoors 6 weeks before the last frost date. This gives seedlings time to establish before being transplanted outside after frost danger has passed.
How much sun does Napa Cabbage need? +
Napa Cabbage requires full sun (6-8 hours) to thrive.
How far apart should I plant Napa Cabbage? +
Space Napa Cabbage plants 18 inches apart to allow adequate airflow and root development.
How much water does Napa Cabbage need? +
Napa Cabbage has regular (1-2 inches/week) water needs. Consistent moisture is important especially during germination and early growth.
Can you save seeds from Napa Cabbage? +
Yes — seed saving difficulty for Napa Cabbage is rated moderate. Allow heads to bolt in spring heat. Harvest seed pods when tan and dry. Thresh dried seed stalks, winnow to separate seeds.
How long do Napa Cabbage seeds last in storage? +
Properly dried and stored Napa Cabbage seeds remain viable for up to 4 years. Store in a cool, dark, dry location in an airtight container with a silica gel packet for best results.
Are Napa Cabbage seeds open-pollinated? +
Yes — Napa Cabbage is open-pollinated, meaning seeds saved from your harvest will grow plants true to the parent variety. This makes it an excellent candidate for building a self-sustaining garden.
About Napa Cabbage
Mild-flavored Chinese cabbage used in kimchi, stir-fry, and salads. Forms tight, cylindrical heads. Grows best in cool weather.
Expect your Napa Cabbage to be ready for harvest in approximately 70 days from planting.
Use the search above or browse by zone or state to find the perfect planting dates for your location.