CABBAGE VARIETY EVALUATIONS
Infante-Casella*, M.L.1; Cummings, M.21Agricultural Agent, Rutgers NJAES Cooperative Extension, Clayton, NJ, 08312
2Program Associate, Rutgers NJAES Cooperative Extension, Clayton, NJ, 08312
Abstract:
Research to evaluate cabbage varieties was conducted in 2007 and 2009 at the Rutgers Agricultural Research and Extension Center in Bridgeton, New Jersey. In 2007, 13 varieties were evaluated with 12 varieties studied in the 2009 season. Cabbage varieites were evalated for specific quality attributes that included head color, head size, head shape, head density, leaf margin smoothness,wrapper leaf orientation, cracking tolerance, and head discoloration when subjected to cold temperatures in the field. In 2009, a subjective taste evaluation was done to determine sweetness or pungency levels of raw cabbage. From this two year study green cabbage varieties that were rated best for commercial production in the region included 'Green Cup', 'Royal Vantage', 'Blue Dynasty', and 'Platinum Dynasty'. Other varieties were of good quality and should be looked at depending on where the producer intends to market the crop. Some specialty types included in the trial, such as 'Arrowhead' (smaller, pointed heads)and 'Gunma' (flat heads) may be interesting for retail sales.