Image: Cabbage Growing Problems: Splitting Heads and Yellowing Leaves

This high-resolution landscape photograph shows two cabbage plants growing in dark, fertile soil, each displaying common problems that often affect maturing heads. The cabbage in the foreground is the most visually striking: its head has split open vertically, revealing the tightly layered inner leaves that would normally remain concealed beneath smooth, compact outer foliage. The split is clean and noticeable, cutting through the center of the head and indicating a rapid intake of water or sudden growth surge—one of the primary causes of cabbage splitting in the garden. Surrounding this damaged head are broad, blue-green outer leaves that fan outward, their prominent veins adding structural detail. Some of the lower outer leaves have begun to yellow, transitioning from deep green to patchy golden tones, with small brown spots and areas of deterioration hinting at nutrient deficiencies, natural aging, or early disease activity.

Just behind the split cabbage, a second plant appears with a solid, intact head. Its surface is smooth and rounded, showing no signs of cracking. Yet even here, the yellowing of the outer leaves is clearly visible, consistent with stress or environmental imbalance. The yellowed leaves lie close to the soil, their mottled coloration showing irregular patterns of green fading into yellow and small areas of decay. These symptoms are typical indicators of issues such as nitrogen deficiency, overwatering, poor drainage, or simply the natural senescence of older leaves as the plant directs energy into forming the central head.

The soil in the image appears rich, dark, and slightly moist, with small clumps that suggest recent watering or rainfall—conditions that can contribute both to splitting and to leaf discoloration. In the lower right corner, a few small weed seedlings or volunteer plants emerge, adding a naturalistic touch to the garden setting. The background is softly blurred, drawing attention to the cabbages themselves while still implying the presence of additional crops or foliage beyond the focal point.

Overall, the image offers a clear, detailed look at two of the most recognizable cabbage-growing challenges: splitting heads caused by abrupt growth changes and yellowing outer leaves caused by nutrient stress, moisture imbalance, or natural aging. The combination of vibrant greens, warm yellow tones, and the organic textures of soil and foliage creates a realistic, horticulturally informative visual that highlights both the resilience and vulnerabilities of cabbage as it matures in a home garden environment.

The image is related to: The Complete Guide to Growing Cabbage in Your Home Garden