Many summer residents, trying to speed up the growth of the head of cabbage, make a common mistake - they tear off the lower leaves of the plant. However, such an action can cause serious harm and significantly reduce the yield.
Anastasia Kovrizhnykh, an expert of the online publication "BelNovosti", an agronomist and landscape designer, reminded summer residents of the most important thing.
The role of lower leaves in the development of cabbage
The lower leaves of cabbage play an important role in the life of the plant. They perform several key functions that ensure healthy growth and the formation of a quality harvest.
• Photosynthesis and nutrition. Cabbage leaves are the main organ of photosynthesis. It is in them that the transformation of solar energy into nutrients necessary for plant growth occurs. The lower leaves, despite their appearance, continue to actively participate in this process, providing the cabbage with additional nutrition.
• Protection from pests and diseases. The lower leaves create a natural barrier that protects the plant from pests and pathogens. They are the first to take the hit, keeping the upper leaves and the developing head healthy.
• Humidity regulation. Large lower leaves help maintain an optimal level of humidity around the plant. They reduce moisture evaporation from the soil and create a favorable microclimate for the development of cabbage.
Consequences of tearing off lower leaves
Removing the bottom leaves of cabbage can lead to a number of negative consequences.
• Slow growth. Having lost part of the photosynthetic surface, the plant receives fewer nutrients. The result is slow growth and head formation.
• Weakened immunity. Without the protective barrier of the lower leaves, cabbage becomes more vulnerable to pest attacks and diseases. The risk of infection by various pathogens increases.
• Violation of water balance. Removing the lower leaves disrupts the natural microclimate around the plant. The soil dries out faster, which can lead to stress and slower development of cabbage.
Proper care of cabbage
Instead of picking off the lower leaves, you should focus on proper care of the plant.
1. Regular watering. Cabbage needs sufficient moisture. It is necessary to keep the soil moist, especially during the period of head formation.
2. Fertilizing. Cabbage requires nutrients for healthy growth. Regular fertilizing with organic and mineral fertilizers is recommended.
3. Loosening the soil. Loosening helps provide oxygen access to the root system and improves the absorption of nutrients.
4. Pest control. It is important to promptly identify and control pests using both chemical and biological methods of plant protection.
Expert: Anastasia Kovrizhnykh
