Plant high quality seed from a reputable supplier to avoid early disease development in plant beds and greenhouses.

Select commercially acceptable varieties with some resistance to insects, nematodes, and diseases.

Select loamy, fertile, well-drained fields free of hardpans, residues, and troublesome weeds. Maintain proper weed management, particularly weed species related to crucifers. Sample soil annually for pH, nutrients, nematodes, and soil insects.

Rotate with a non-crucifer crop for at least two years.

Use only disease and insect free seed and transplants. All purchased plants originating off-farm should be certified or approved by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture.

Establish good stands either by transplanting, or directly seeding. Nitrogen, boron, calcium, copper, magnesium, molybdenum, sulfur, molybdenum, zinc and other nutrients may be needed to ensure growth and prevent deficiencies. Inspect plant beds for disease and insects prior to using transplants.

Promptly identify or diagnose all plant abnormalities, rots and insect pests. Also identify and release beneficial insects.

Install pheromone traps near fields to detect and monitor for diamondback moth, cabbage looper and other insects.

Select pesticides, follow label directions for best results, use a high pressure (250 psi) sprayer to ensure proper placement and coverage, and rotate chemical classes to adhere to resistant management.

Practice sanitation in the field, irrigate to ensure 1 1/2 inches of moisture per week. Be aware that pathogens may exist in irrigation water from ponds and streams adjacent to production fields. Avoid injuring plants at harvest to maintain proper market quality.