Da Hong Winter Cabbage

Start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before your intended transplant date, maintaining soil temperatures between 55 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Seedlings will be ready to transplant when they develop their first true leaves.

Transplant seedlings outdoors once they've hardened off and soil temperatures remain between 55 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Space transplants 18 inches apart with 12 inches between rows. Timing is crucial for fall and winter harvests; count backward from your first expected frost date.

Direct sow seeds in the garden at soil temperatures between 55 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Plant in the spring for summer harvests or in late summer for fall and winter production, where this variety truly excels.

Harvest at the stage that suits your needs. For microgreens, cut at soil level when plants are 10-15 days old and have developed their first true leaves. Baby leaf harvesting occurs at 20-30 days by picking outer leaves or cutting the entire plant just above soil level. For full-sized heads, wait 40-49 days from sowing; harvest when the plant reaches 12-18 inches tall and leaves feel firm and crisp. The violet-red color should be vibrant and deep. Begin harvesting in the morning when leaves are most turgid, and use a clean knife to cut cleanly at the base.