Cabbage

Boron deficiency in cabbage

The characteristic symptom of cabbage boron deficiency found in the field is the breakdown of the pith of the stem—easily seen when the head is split vertically. Water-soaked spots first develop in the pith, the tissue gradually becomes necrotic, and sometimes a cavity may form.

If the deficiency occurs at the young seedling stage, the new leaves will be small and distorted and often thicker than normal. The death of the growing point can follow, but this is not expected under field conditions. Boron deficiency occurs more often on cauliflower and broccoli than on cabbage.

Typical recommended ranges for boron boradcast soil application for cabbage is 2-3 lbs of B/acre. Normal plant analysis levels for the best quality and marketability have leaf boron levels in the 25-50 ppm range.*

*Always consult local crop advisors to check the proper dose rates. Rates of boron fertilization should be based on yield goals along with soil tests and/or plant tissue analyses.