Cabbage might look tough on the outside, but its lush, dense leaves make it a target for fungal, bacterial, and soil-borne diseases — especially as heads begin to form. Fortunately, most issues can be prevented with a few simple steps and a proactive mindset.
Common Cabbage Diseases to Watch
- Black Rot: Yellowing leaves with black, V-shaped lesions
- Downy Mildew: Gray or white fuzzy mold on leaf undersides
- Clubroot: Plants wilt and stop growing; roots become swollen and distorted
- Fusarium Wilt: Leaves yellow from the bottom up and fall off prematurely
Once symptoms appear, it’s often too late to save the plant. That’s why prevention is your best defense.
How to Prevent Cabbage Diseases
1. Practice Crop Rotation
Don’t plant cabbage (or any other brassicas) in the same soil more than once every 2–3 years. This starves soil-borne pathogens of a host.
2. Improve Soil Drainage
Fungal diseases love wet roots. Use raised beds, loose soil, and mulch to regulate moisture.
3. Avoid Overhead Watering
Water at the base of the plant to keep leaves dry and reduce fungal growth. Morning watering is best.
4. Space Plants Properly
Cabbage needs room to breathe — overcrowding invites mildew and rot. Stick to 12–18 inches between plants.
5. Remove Damaged Leaves Promptly
If you see spots, mold, or wilting — prune and discard (not compost!) affected leaves to limit spread.
6. Disinfect Tools & Hands
Clean shears and gloves after each use, especially if working with sick plants.
AiFarming Keeps You a Step Ahead
With AiFarming’s disease alerts, crop rotation reminders, and real-time pest pressure updates, you’ll always know when and how to act before problems get out of hand — so your cabbage can stay crisp, clean, and healthy.