Ethiopian cabbage (Brassica carinata) is a cool-season leafy green that is part of the Brassicaceae family, similar to cabbage and kale. Native to East Africa, it is well-suited to a range of growing conditions and provides a nutritious food source. While it is typically cultivated for human consumption, its leaves and stems can also serve as a valuable wildlife food source, especially during winter when other forage options are scarce. It’s beneficial for deer, small mammals, and wild birds.

Benefits for Wildlife Habitat

✔ Nutritious, leafy greens that attract deer, wild turkeys, and small mammals.
✔ Fast-growing, offering early-season forage before other crops mature.
✔ High in vitamins and minerals, making it an excellent forage crop for wildlife.
✔ Provides cover and food during the cooler months, especially when planted as a winter food plot.
✔ Grows well in diverse climates, providing a consistent food source.

Planting Guidelines

• Planting Times:

  • Early Spring (March–April): Ideal for cool-season growth, best planted early to mature before the summer heat.
  • Late Summer to Early Fall (July–September): Can be planted for fall and winter forage, especially in regions with mild winters.

• Seeding Depth:

  • ¼ to ½ inch deep to ensure proper germination.

• Seeding Rates:

  • Drilled: 5–8 lbs per acre for consistent stand establishment.
  • Broadcast: 8–10 lbs per acre, followed by light raking or cultipacking to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.

• Days to Maturity:

  • 60–80 days from planting to full maturity, with leaves becoming usable in 50–60 days.

• Drought Tolerance:

  • Moderate – Ethiopian cabbage prefers consistent moisture for optimal growth, but it can tolerate periods of drought once established.

• Saturated Soil Tolerance:

  • Low – Prefers well-drained soils and is not tolerant of waterlogged conditions for long periods.

• Shade Tolerance:

  • Moderate to Low – Grows best in full sun but can tolerate light shade, especially in hotter climates.

Fertilization Guidelines for Ethiopian Cabbage

• Soil pH: Prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils with a pH range of 6.0–7.0.
• Nitrogen (N): Ethiopian cabbage has moderate nitrogen needs for optimal growth. A balanced application of 10–20 lbs of nitrogen per acre can promote healthy leaf production.
• Phosphorus (P): Apply 20–30 lbs P₂O₅ per acre to support root growth and early plant development.
• Potassium (K): Apply 30–40 lbs K₂O per acre to support overall plant health and resistance to disease.

Fertilization Timing:

• Apply phosphorus and potassium before planting, especially if soil tests indicate deficiencies.
• Nitrogen can be applied in split doses during early growth stages and when plants are actively growing.

Herbicide Use for Ethiopian Cabbage

• Weed Management:

  • Weed control is crucial during the early growth stages to prevent competition for nutrients and moisture. Once established, Ethiopian cabbage can tolerate some weed pressure.

• Herbicide Options:

  • Pre-emergence: Herbicides like Prowl H2O (Pendimethalin) or Treflan (Trifluralin) can be used to control grasses and broadleaf weeds before planting.
  • Post-emergence: 2,4-D can be used to control broadleaf weeds after the crop has established.

Key Considerations:

• Always follow herbicide labels to avoid damaging the crop, especially during early growth.