Troubleshooting
'January King' Cabbage problems — and how to fix them
'January King' Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata 'January King') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Clubroot
Soil-borne disease swelling and rotting roots, stunting plants over the long season. Lime to near-neutral pH, improve drainage, and rotate brassicas on a 3-4 year cycle.
Cabbage root fly
Larvae tunnel into roots, wilting young plants. Fit brassica collars at the stem base when transplanting or cover with insect-proof mesh.
Pigeon damage
Wood pigeons strip leaves of overwintering cabbages in hard weather. Net or cage plants through autumn and winter to protect them.
Split heads
Mature heads crack after sudden heavy rain following dry spells, or if left standing too long. Keep watering even and harvest promptly once heads feel firm.
Prevent 'january king' cabbage problems before they start
Most 'january king' cabbage issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for 'january king' cabbage in general rather than its problems? Read the full 'january king' cabbage care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
'January King' Cabbage problems — FAQ
Why is my 'january king' cabbage clubroot?
Soil-borne disease swelling and rotting roots, stunting plants over the long season. Lime to near-neutral pH, improve drainage, and rotate brassicas on a 3-4 year cycle.
Why is my 'january king' cabbage cabbage root fly?
Larvae tunnel into roots, wilting young plants. Fit brassica collars at the stem base when transplanting or cover with insect-proof mesh.
Why is my 'january king' cabbage pigeon damage?
Wood pigeons strip leaves of overwintering cabbages in hard weather. Net or cage plants through autumn and winter to protect them.
Why is my 'january king' cabbage split heads?
Mature heads crack after sudden heavy rain following dry spells, or if left standing too long. Keep watering even and harvest promptly once heads feel firm.