They say that big things come in small packages – and that is especially true of a massive cabbage weighing 7 and a half pounds grown by Sophia Schnaibli, a third grader at Humble ISD Elementary in Atascocita, Texas.
As part of Bonnie Plants’ 3rd Grade Cabbage Program, Sophia was granted a tiny cabbage seedling by her 3rd-grade teacher, Mrs. Faria. That summer, Sophia’s cabbage grew to a whopping 7.5 pounds. Her massive cabbage was chosen as the program’s 2022 Texas State winner.
She was awarded a $1,000 scholarship for winning.
“Here, at Bonnie Plants, we know it takes commitment and attention to plant, care for and to grow a cabbage to the size and quality you were able to achieve,” Savannah Burgess of Bonnie Plants wrote in the letter congratulating Sophia on her win. “Sophia, you did a great job!”
Bonnie Plants’ 3rd Grade Cabbage Program, started in 1996, is a part of an initiative to inspire a love of vegetable gardening in children and a better understanding of where food comes from.
“Learning how to grow healthy food at an early age teaches kids to value the fun and hard work that goes into gardening,” Bonnie Plants CEO Mike Sutterer writes on their website. “We’re always thrilled to share the appreciation and excitement of a bountiful harvest with our students and believe the joy of gardening is something you never outgrow.”
But why cabbage? According to their website: “Cabbages were the first profitable crop sold by Bonnie in 1918. The cabbages utilized for the program are the O.S. Cross variety, which is known for producing giant, oversized heads, making the process even more exciting for kids.”
Cabbages are also incredibly healthy. Cabbages are a nutritious vegetable that is packed with essential vitamins and minerals. They are low in calories but high in fiber, which helps to keep you feeling fuller for longer.
They are also a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate, as well as minerals such as magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium. Cabbages are also a great source of antioxidants, which can help to protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Furthermore, cabbages contain a compound called glucosinolates, which have been linked to reducing the risk of certain types of cancer. Additionally, cabbages are a good source of dietary fiber, which can help to keep your digestive system running smoothly and support healthy gut bacteria.
All in all, cabbages are a healthy and nutritious choice for any meal! We hope that Sophia’s cabbage was especially tasty because it was home grown!
