Growing large and strong cabbage is not only timely watering of the beds. In the middle of the season the plants especially need additional support. Exactly at this time pests often appear on the leaves, and because of a lack of nutrition the heads form more slowly. Many experienced gardeners use a simple solution that helps simultaneously strengthen the plants and make them less attractive to insects.
What will be needed
For 10 liters of water take:
1 cup of sifted wood ash; 1 tablespoon of liquid household or green soap.
Pour the ash with a small amount of hot water and leave to infuse for several hours. Then strain the infusion, top up with water to 10 liters and add the soap. Thanks to it the solution holds better on the leaves.
How to apply correctly
Water the cabbage under the root, and with the remains of the solution lightly spray the leaves from both sides. It is better to carry out the treatment in the evening or in cloudy weather to avoid sunburns.
For a good result it is enough to repeat the procedure once every 7–10 days. After a strong rain it is desirable to carry out the treatment again.
Why this method helps
Wood ash is a source of potassium, calcium and other useful microelements necessary for the active growth of cabbage and the formation of dense heads. In addition, its composition creates unfavourable conditions for many common pests, and the soap helps the solution stay longer on the surface of the leaves.
Important recommendations
Do not use the solution on a hot sunny day. If the soil has dried out, first thoroughly water the bed with clean water, and only then apply the nutrient solution.
Such uncomplicated care helps the cabbage gain strength faster, form large heads and more easily endure attacks of pests. The main thing is to carry out the treatments regularly and combine them with correct watering and timely loosening of the soil.
This material was prepared by the editorial team using artificial intelligence tools. All information has been verified and edited before publication.