Many crops are started indoors for some gardeners, including myself, but at times I have to purchase from local supplies if I have a low success rate.
Brassicas have always been a struggle for me to start seeds indoors the first of January, in hopes to plant by March/April. Here in zone 6a/6b of Tennessee, my elevation can cause trouble for my indoor seeding attempts at times, with the flux of pressure and temps, here in the Appalachian mountains.
I currently rely on local suppliers for any brassica plants for my garden, like cabbage, brussels and sometimes broccoli.
In my organic garden these plants grow pretty easily, at times I or others can face some issues. Here I want to share some simple tips I've learned along the way to help ensure you have success with your brassica plants.
Amending your soil would be top priority before putting these plants in the ground. This is normally done in the mid to late fall, keeping the pH level of your planting site between 6.5 and 7.5. Brassicas don't grow too well in acidic soil, some suggest amending your soil with lime, but I prefer organic composts and mulches. Adding plenty of organic matter can make a big difference for all your plants during planting or prepping seasons. When prepping your garden for your brassica plants remember not to plant in the same area you used the previous year. You want to avoid pests and diseases, which brassicas are very susceptible too. Note: Its recommended to plant any brassica on a 3-year rotation to avoid any issues.
Tip: When planting - Add One single serving black tea bag under each plant, this helps deter moths and cabbage worms. As well as spraying your plants with diluted neem oil/water mixture.
Using a Good Row Cover is a must once you have your plants in the ground. There are variety of options made of various materials, quality, length and so forth. My favorite has been the mosquito netting row cover, its been real good to keeping moths and cabbage worms off plants. Made of premium polyethylene with ultra-dense mesh and neat edge. The netting for garden protection is durable and reusable to lightweight for install. Water and light can through directly with no need remove the plant cover when watering. Which has great ventilation to ensure the moisture required for plant growth.
Find more info on Gardening Notes for Zone 6a/6B Tennessee/laureltennpeak.com