When to Plant Cabbage in Victoria, BC
Published: April 24, 2026 · Updated: April 27, 2026
Extremely cold-hardy brassica — survives temperatures as low as -7°C (20°F). Start indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost, transplant 2–4 weeks before last frost, and also plant for fall harvest.
Victoria's Canadian Zone 8b (USDA 8b) Pacific Maritime climate is the mildest of any major Canadian city. Frost is rare, and with 302 frost-free days near-year-round outdoor growing is normal. The city's Mediterranean-influenced summer is also Canada's driest — irrigation is essential despite the mild climate.
Cabbage Planting Calendar for Victoria
Start seeds indoors: December 28–January 4
Transplant outdoors: January 25–February 4
Harvest window: March 26 – May 5
Minimum soil temperature: 7°C (45°F)
Days to harvest: 60–100 days
Sun requirement: Full sun (6+ hours)
Fall crop planting: September 22–October 2 (harvest November 21)
⚠ Start cabbage indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost. Transplant 2–4 weeks before last frost. Very frost tolerant — withstands temperatures as low as 20°F. Also plant in late summer for fall harvest.
Victoria Climate Notes
Victoria gardeners can harvest fresh vegetables every month of the year with proper planning. The driest major city in BC — summer irrigation is essential despite the mild climate. Overwintered vegetables (cabbage, kale, leeks, broad beans, garlic) are a Victoria speciality unavailable elsewhere in Canada.
Growing Tips for Cabbage
- Space plants 18 inches apart — crowding reduces head size and promotes fungal disease.
- Side-dress with nitrogen 3–4 weeks after transplanting to support rapid leaf formation.
- Harvest when heads feel firm; leave the root ball in the ground and small secondary heads may form.
- Fall cabbage sweetens after light frost — one of the best-tasting garden crops when harvested in October.
Companion Planting in Victoria
Pair cabbage with Onion, Dill, Celery, Beet for mutual benefit. Avoid planting near Tomato, Strawberry, Pepper, which compete with or inhibit cabbage growth.
Pests and Problems to Watch in Victoria
The most common pest and disease pressure on cabbage in Victoria comes from Cabbage Worm, Cabbage Looper, Aphid, Flea Beetle. Floating row covers through the first 4–6 weeks after planting block adult pests from laying eggs, and a weekly scouting routine catches infestations before they damage the crop.
Other British Columbia Cities
Frequently Asked Questions
When do I plant cabbage in Victoria?
Victoria's last spring frost is around February 15. Start seeds indoors December 28–January 4. Transplant outdoors January 25–February 4.
What Canadian hardiness zone is Victoria?
Victoria is in Canadian Zone 8b (USDA equivalent 8b). The Pacific Maritime mild climate delivers 302 frost-free days from February 15 to December 15, which shapes every planting date in the local calendar.
How long is Victoria's growing season?
Victoria has 302 frost-free days — from February 15 in spring to December 15 in fall. That is more than enough time to finish a full cabbage crop (60–100 days to maturity) before the first fall frost.
Can I grow cabbage in containers in Victoria?
Yes. Container growing on balconies and decks is practical in Victoria — choose a 5-gallon or larger dark-coloured container to warm the root zone, use a high-quality potting mix, and water daily during hot summer weather. In milder climates, containers extend both spring and fall windows by several weeks.
What is the first fall frost in Victoria?
Victoria's average first fall frost is December 15. For a fall cabbage crop, plant around September 22–October 2 so plants mature before the first killing frost.