The critical element that determines cabbage yield

Farmers know that nitrogen is necessary for growing cabbages and other crops, but many do not fully understand its importance for maximising yields

- Bill Kerr

It is not just how much nitrogen (N) is applied to the cabbage field, but also the stages of application and the importance of understanding how easily it is lost in certain circumstances.

Starting off with seedlings, these are often lacking in N due to the hardening process in the nursery. Soft seedlings are very vulnerable when exposed to harsh conditions after transplanting. The nursery is correct in slowing down the growth rate when the plants are becoming transplant size.

However, it is the farmer's responsibility to ensure that they are topped up with N at transplanting. The easiest and most economical procedure is to apply a closed handful of LAN to an 8 to 10€ can of water and apply it to about 2 000 plants prior to transplanting.