When to Plant Chinese Cabbage (Wombok) in Cairns — Tropical Guide
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Wombok (also called Chinese cabbage, napa cabbage, or wong bok) forms tall, barrel-shaped heads of crinkled, pale green leaves. It is faster to mature than European cabbage (8-10 weeks), milder in flavour, and excellent for kimchi, stir-fries, and salads. A cool-season crop that bolts rapidly in warm or long-day conditions.
Current Growing Conditions
Soil temperature: 25.2°C (optimal range: 7–25°C) ✗ Outside optimal range
How to Grow Chinese Cabbage (Wombok) in Tropical Australia
When to Plant
April-June only (dry season). Must avoid wet season humidity and long day-lengths that trigger bolting.
- Soil
- Rich, moisture-retentive soil with plenty of compost and aged manure. Needs good drainage but consistent moisture.
- pH Range
- 6.0-7.0
- Sunlight
- Full sun in cool weather. Part shade (afternoon) in warm zones to prevent bolting.
- Spacing
- 35cm apart, 45cm between rows
- Watering
- Consistent moisture critical. Water deeply 2-3 times per week. Mulch to retain moisture. Irregular watering or drought stress triggers bolting. Drip irrigation preferred.
Companion plants: Celery, Onion, Garlic, Dill, Chamomile
Avoid planting near: Other brassicas (disease transfer), Strawberry, Tomato
Tropical Growing Tips for Chinese Cabbage (Wombok)
Recommended Varieties
- Michihilli
- One Kilo SB (bolt-resistant)
- Wong Bok
Key Challenges
- Bolts rapidly in warm/long-day conditions
- Extreme pest pressure
- Humidity causes rot and fungal diseases
Pro Tips
- Only plant in the dry season when day-lengths are short
- Choose bolt-resistant varieties specifically bred for tropical conditions
- Insect netting is essential from day one
Harvesting Chinese Cabbage (Wombok)
When ready: Head is firm and solid when gently squeezed. Typically barrel-shaped, 25-35cm tall. Outer leaves may begin to flare. Head has a dense, compact feel.
How to harvest: Cut at base with sharp knife. Can harvest entire head or remove outer leaves progressively for loose-leaf use. Harvest in cool of morning.
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