Savoy is hardy. But does it still need winter protection? Find out below how much frost the savoy can tolerate, how you should protect it from the cold and whether it tastes better when it has been frosted.

Late varieties usually have no problem with frost

Savoy cabbage is hardy down to -10 degrees, isn't it?

The rule of thumb says that savoy cabbage easily tolerates temperatures down to -10 degrees. However, savoy cabbage is not just savoy cabbage. The frost hardness can vary depending on the variety. The so-called winter savoy, which is only planted in October and harvested in early spring, is very hardy. Even late varieties, which according to the manufacturer can often be harvested until January or February, are usually very hardy. Early varieties, on the other hand, are often less resistant to cold and should be harvested by September/October.

Protect savoy from frost

Better safe than sorry: Even if late Savoy cabbage varieties should in principle survive the German winter, you can help it by covering the root area with brushwood and/or leaves. This is particularly advisable when the temperatures drop below -10 degrees or it is very cold for a long period of time.

Caring for savoy cabbage in winter

Savoy cabbage should also be watered in winter on frost-free days - as long as it doesn't rain. However, the savoy does not need fertilization.

Harvest savoy cabbage in winter

You can harvest savoy cabbage one at a time by cutting off the outer leaves leaving the heart intact, or you can harvest it entirely. This applies to both summer and winter harvests. Find out more about the Savoy cabbage harvest time here.

Does the savoy taste better after getting frost?

Kale is known to taste better after the first frost. This is because it contains a relatively large amount of bitter substances, the production of which stops when it is cool for a long time. However, temperatures just above zero are sufficient for this. However, this does not apply to savoy cabbage, as this type of cabbage contains hardly any bitter substances and therefore tastes deliciously aromatic and slightly sweet even when harvested in summer.

The winter bed: harvesting vegetables in winter

Savoy cabbage is not the only vegetable that can be harvested in winter. Create a winter bed so that you can bring fresh vegetables to the dining table even in frost and snow. These plants tolerate frost:

  • Kale
  • Kohlrabi
  • Red cabbage
  • cauliflower
  • Brussels sprouts (does not tolerate prolonged frost)
  • Jerusalem Artichoke
  • winter squash
  • Chicory
  • leek
  • carrots
  • parsnips
  • swedes
  • Beetroot
  • Lamb's lettuce
  • radicchio
  • salsify
  • winter posteline
  • root parsley
  • chives

Category:

Vegetable garden