Daubenton cabbage

Daubenton's cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. ramosa) is a variety of perennial cabbage that does not form a head and is grown for its leaves and young shoots. It is hardy, resistant to disease and productive over several years.

Planting : It can be planted at any time of the year.

Planting : It is planted from March to October, in full sun or part shade, in rich, cool, well-drained soil. The distance between each plant should be approximately 80 cm and 1 m.

Multiplication : It reproduces mainly by cuttings, as it rarely flowers and produces few seeds. To take cuttings, simply prick out a stem about fifteen centimetres long, remove the lower leaves and plant it in damp soil. Rooting generally takes 3 to 4 weeks.

Maintenance: This cabbage requires little maintenance. Regular watering is recommended for the first year, then only when dry. Mulching may be useful to keep the soil moist. Pruning simply involves removing the leaves to stimulate growth. Adding compost in the spring will encourage its development.

Harvesting: Leaves and young shoots can be harvested all year round, as required.

Diseases and pests: It is not very susceptible to disease, but can be attacked by aphids, flea beetles or cabbage looper. A black soap treatment against aphids, mulching to limit flea beetles and hand-picking caterpillars may be necessary.

Use: Its leaves can be eaten raw in salads, cooked in soups, sautéed or stuffed for simmered dishes.

Daubenton's cabbage is prized for its ease of cultivation, resistance to disease and continuous harvesting throughout the year.