Drumhead Cabbage Seeds — Heirloom | Massive 10–12 lb Flattened Blue-Green Heads, Cold Hardy, Sauerkraut & Storage Classic | 85–100 Days

Drumhead (Brassica oleracea var. capitata) is a large, flattened-head heirloom cabbage grown for generations by home gardeners and homesteaders for its exceptional size, cold hardiness, and long storage quality. Dense, blue-green heads reach 10–12 lbs with a crisp texture and mild, sweet flavor that works equally well raw, cooked, or fermented. The flattened drumhead form produces excellent wrapper leaves and holds up through the fermentation process — making it one of the preferred varieties for sauerkraut and kimchi. 1.0 g / 200+ seeds per packet. 85–100 days to maturity.

• Botanical name: Brassica oleracea var. capitata
• Days to maturity: 85–100 days
• Days to germination: 7–10 days
• Head type: Flattened drumhead
• Head color: Blue-green
• Head size: 10–12 lbs; 10–12 inches diameter
• Flavor: Mild, sweet — crisp texture
• Cold hardiness: Excellent — biennial grown as annual in all zones
• Storage quality: Excellent — ideal for winter use
• Packet size: 1.0 g / 200+ seeds
• Sowing depth: ¼ inch
• Plant spacing: 12–24 inches; rows 24–36 inches
• Plant height: 12–18 inches; spread 18–24 inches
• Light: Full sun
• USDA Zones: 2–11 (biennial grown as annual)
• Type: Heirloom, open-pollinated, non-GMO

The Drumhead Form — Built for Size and Storage

The flattened drumhead head type was developed specifically for maximum head size and storage performance. The wide, flat profile allows the head to develop more leaf mass than round-headed varieties of the same weight, producing excellent wrapper leaves and a dense interior that holds its structure through fermentation and extended cold storage. Drumhead has been grown for generations by homesteaders and market gardeners who need a reliable, high-yielding cabbage that stores through winter without refrigeration.

Kitchen Uses

The mild, sweet flavor and crisp texture work across a wide range of preparations. Shred for coleslaw and fresh slaws — the dense leaves hold up well in dressed preparations. Ferment shredded leaves with salt for sauerkraut or with gochugaru and garlic for kimchi — the firm, dense heads hold their structure through fermentation. Add to soups and stews in the final 10–15 minutes. Roast wedges with olive oil and caraway at 400°F until caramelized. Stir-fry with garlic and ginger over high heat. The large outer wrapper leaves work well for stuffed cabbage rolls.

Growing Notes

Direct sow ¼ inch deep in fertile, well-prepared soil as soon as the ground can be worked in early spring, or start indoors 4–6 weeks before last frost and transplant outdoors after hardening off. Space plants 12–24 inches apart in rows 24–36 inches apart — the large flat heads need room to size up. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; mulch around plants to retain moisture and keep soil cool. Feed with balanced organic fertilizer once or twice during the season. For a continual harvest, sow in succession every 2–3 weeks. Companion plant with dill, nasturtium, or onions to deter pests. Harvest when heads feel tight, heavy, and very firm when squeezed — cut cleanly at the base with a sharp knife, leaving several wrapper leaves to protect the head.

Pest & Disease Management

Susceptible to cabbage worms, aphids, and fungal leaf diseases in humid conditions. Use row covers or hand-picking to manage caterpillars. Companion plant with nasturtiums as trap crops and dill or onions as pest deterrents. Maintain good airflow between plants to reduce fungal pressure. Practice crop rotation — avoid planting brassicas in the same bed more than once every 5–6 years.

Frequently Asked Questions

How large do Drumhead cabbage heads get?

Under good conditions, Drumhead heads reach 10–12 lbs and 10–12 inches in diameter. The flattened drumhead form is wider than it is tall, producing a distinctive flat profile with excellent wrapper leaves.

Is Drumhead good for sauerkraut?

Yes — it is one of the preferred varieties for fermentation. The dense, firm heads hold their structure through the fermentation process without becoming mushy, and the mild sweet flavor produces a clean, classic sauerkraut.

How long does Drumhead cabbage store?

Heads store for several months in a cool, dry location or root cellar. Cure briefly in a cool, shaded place before long-term storage. The variety was selected specifically for excellent storage quality, making it ideal for winter use without refrigeration.

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