Troubleshooting
Savoy Cabbage problems — and how to fix them
Savoy Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. sabauda 'Savoy 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.
Cabbage root fly
Larvae attack roots and stem bases, wilting and killing young plants. Fit brassica collars at the stem, net the bed, and rotate crops to break the pest cycle.
Clubroot
Swollen, distorted roots stunt and wilt plants in acidic, wet soil. Raise pH with lime, improve drainage, use a long rotation, and never replant brassicas in infected ground.
Caterpillars and aphids
Cabbage white caterpillars and grey cabbage aphids burrow into the leaves and heads. Net with fine mesh from planting, inspect leaf undersides, and remove pests by hand.
Head splitting
Mature heads split after heavy rain or watering following a dry spell as they take up water fast. Keep moisture steady, harvest promptly when firm, or twist plants to slow uptake.
Prevent savoy cabbage problems before they start
Most savoy cabbage issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for savoy cabbage in general rather than its problems? Read the full savoy cabbage care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Savoy Cabbage problems — FAQ
Why is my savoy cabbage cabbage root fly?
Larvae attack roots and stem bases, wilting and killing young plants. Fit brassica collars at the stem, net the bed, and rotate crops to break the pest cycle.
Why is my savoy cabbage clubroot?
Swollen, distorted roots stunt and wilt plants in acidic, wet soil. Raise pH with lime, improve drainage, use a long rotation, and never replant brassicas in infected ground.
Why is my savoy cabbage caterpillars and aphids?
Cabbage white caterpillars and grey cabbage aphids burrow into the leaves and heads. Net with fine mesh from planting, inspect leaf undersides, and remove pests by hand.
Why is my savoy cabbage head splitting?
Mature heads split after heavy rain or watering following a dry spell as they take up water fast. Keep moisture steady, harvest promptly when firm, or twist plants to slow uptake.