Brunswick Cabbage Seeds — Heirloom Organic | 1824 German Drumhead Cabbage, Cold Hardy, Sauerkraut Classic | 70 Days

Introduced to the United States from Germany in 1824, Brunswick (Brassica oleracea ‘Brunswick’) is a large drumhead-type cabbage selected for cold hardiness, long storage, and fermentation quality. Greyish-green to light green outer leaves surround a dense, firm head that can reach 3 lbs or more under good conditions. The flavor is mild and slightly bitter raw, but turns sweet and versatile when cooked — making it the traditional choice for sauerkraut, stir-fry, soups, and braised preparations. Rich in vitamin K, vitamin C, fiber, and potassium. 1.0 g / 200+ seeds per packet. 70 days to maturity.

• Botanical name: Brassica oleracea ‘Brunswick’
• Days to maturity: 70 days (65–80 depending on conditions)
• Days to germination: 10–12 days
• Head type: Large drumhead / rosette
• Head color: Greyish-green to light green; white interior
• Head weight: Up to 3 lbs+
• Flavor: Mildly bitter raw; sweet and versatile when cooked
• Cold hardiness: Excellent — ideal for fall and winter growing
• Packet size: 1.0 g / 200+ seeds
• Sowing depth: ¼ inch
• Plant spacing: 24–48 inches (wide-spreading rosette)
• Row spacing: 48 inches
• Plant height: Up to 12 inches
• Light: Full sun to light shade
• USDA Zones: 5–12 (annual)
• Type: Heirloom, open-pollinated, organic, non-GMO, annual

A German Heirloom Built for Cold and Storage

Brunswick was developed in Germany and selected specifically for cold hardiness and long-term storage — qualities that made it essential for winter food preservation before refrigeration. The drumhead form produces wide, flat-topped heads with dense, tightly packed leaves that hold up through fermentation and extended cold storage. Heads store for 1–2 months in a cool location; wrapping in a damp cloth in the refrigerator helps maintain crispness. The variety’s cold tolerance makes it one of the best choices for fall and winter crops in temperate climates.

Kitchen Uses

Brunswick’s mild, slightly bitter raw flavor transforms when cooked — becoming sweet and readily absorbing surrounding flavors. Shred and ferment with salt for traditional sauerkraut; the dense heads hold their structure through the fermentation process without becoming mushy. Add diced to spaghetti sauces, soups, and stews to bulk up meals with fiber and nutrients. Sauté with butter and salt as a simple side. Stir-fry with garlic and soy sauce over high heat. The large outer leaves can be used as wraps for stuffed cabbage rolls.

Growing Notes

Sow indoors 4–6 weeks before transplanting, or direct sow ¼ inch deep in fertile, well-draining soil with good organic matter (pH 6.5–7.0). Harden off seedlings before transplanting outdoors. Space plants 24–48 inches apart — Brunswick spreads wide at maturity. Interplant young cabbages with quick-growing greens like spinach or lettuce to use the space while plants establish. Keep soil consistently moist; cabbages have shallow roots and need frequent, light irrigation. Mulch around the base to retain moisture, reduce bolting risk, and prevent rot. Mound soil around the base in high-wind areas to protect shallow roots. Avoid planting brassicas in the same location more than once every 5–6 years. Frost or prolonged temperatures below 50°F may cause premature bolting.

Pest & Disease Management

Common pests include cabbage beetles, moths, loopers, worms, and slugs. Use fine bug netting or row covers to exclude insects. Apply horticultural oil consistently as a preventive measure. Practice crop rotation — avoid planting brassicas in the same bed more than once every 5–6 years to reduce clubroot and bacterial rot pressure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Brunswick the best cabbage for sauerkraut?

It is one of the traditional choices. The dense drumhead form produces firm, tightly packed leaves that hold their structure through fermentation without becoming mushy. The mild, slightly sweet flavor when fermented is well-suited to classic sauerkraut preparations.

How long do Brunswick cabbage heads store?

Heads store for 1–2 months in a cool, dry location or refrigerator. Wrapping in a damp cloth in the refrigerator helps maintain crispness. The variety was specifically selected for storage quality.

When is the best time to plant Brunswick cabbage?

Spring and fall are the most successful planting times. For a fall harvest, start seeds indoors in late spring and transplant in late summer. For a spring harvest, sow in late summer and overwinter with protection. Brunswick’s cold hardiness makes it particularly well-suited to fall and winter growing.

Packed and shipped by Box Garden Seeds LLC — heirloom seeds grown without GMOs, selected for flavor, resilience, and your garden’s success.