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Storage characteristics and conditions of cabbage
Cabbage, commonly known as "cabbage" in Chinese, is a widely cultivated cruciferous vegetable that has been grown for centuries. Originating from the Mediterranean coast, it was introduced to China over 200 years ago and is now grown throughout the country. This versatile vegetable is valued for its hardiness, nutritional value, and long storage life.
One of the key characteristics of cabbage is its strong adaptability and cold resistance. The outer leaves are thick and covered with a waxy layer, which helps protect the plant from low temperatures and minor frost damage (without affecting the inner core). This makes it ideal for storage and transportation. When thawed, the leaves remain firm and can be gradually softened, making it easier to handle and store for extended periods.
In terms of variety, cabbage can be classified based on leaf shape and color. There are three main types: white ball, red ball, and wrinkled leaf. In China, the most commonly produced and sold varieties are categorized by the shape of the head—flat-headed, pointed-headed, and round-headed. Additionally, depending on the growing season, cabbage is divided into spring, summer, autumn-winter, and late-winter varieties, each suited to different climatic conditions.
The first type of cabbage is nearly round, with green or dark green leaves. A thin layer of white wax covers the surface, and the leaf ball is usually oblate. The central stem (leaf bulb) is short, resulting in a tightly packed head. This variety is known for high yield, good storage ability, and a long growing period of up to 130 days. Common late-maturing varieties include yellow seedlings, small flat-headed black cabbages, and large flat-headed green cabbages.
The second type features smaller leaves that form a heart-shaped structure. These cabbages have a higher central column and a more compact ball, typically available early in the season, from May to June. Varieties like "Early Gold" are popular for their quick maturation and early availability.
The third type has medium-sized leaves with slight protrusions in the center. The central column is shorter, and the head is tightly packed. These mid-season varieties offer good quality, moderate yield, and excellent storage capacity. They are usually available in June, with varieties such as "Xiaobaikou" and "Xiaoqingkou" being widely recognized.
For optimal storage, cabbage requires cool temperatures, ideally between 0°C and 1°C, with a relative humidity of 98% to 100%. Under these conditions, it can be stored for 4 to 5 months, maintaining its freshness and quality. Proper handling during harvest and storage is essential to prevent bruising and spoilage, ensuring that the vegetable remains suitable for consumption over an extended period.