SCIENTIFIC NAME: Brassica oleracea
LIGHT: Full Sun
SOIL TYPE: Well-drained, high organic matter
pH RANGE: 6.0 - 6.5
MOISTURE/WATERING: Keep moist, not waterlogged
MATURITY IN DAYS: 50 - 80
KNOWN PESTS: N/A
KNOWN DISEASES: N/A
OVERVIEW:
Cauliflower is not easy to start from seed in the garden so it is best planting seeds in a hot bed or flats early in spring. Transfer the cauliflower to the garden when the plants are about 4 to 5 inches high. To keep cauliflower heads white, pull some of the larger leaves up over the heads and fasten with a rubber band or string. Cauliflower likes a rich soil and moisture and monthly feeds with a nitrogen-rich fertilizer will help. Harvest cauliflower when heads are still white for the best flavour.
PROPAGATION / SOWING OF CAULIFLOWER:
Plant cauliflower seeds ¼-½” deep. Transplant or thin small plants to 15-18” apart in rows 32-36” apart. Cauliflower transplants can be started in April for May planting. Transplant after 4-6 weeks. Use a starter fertilizer, soaking the root ball thoroughly prior to transplanting. Direct seed cauliflower in late spring, as seedlings can tolerate a light frost. Cauliflower can be direct seeded up until mid-late June for a continuous harvest. Soil temperature should be 70-80°F for optimal germination in 4-7 days.
CARE & GROWING OF CAULIFLOWER:
Cauliflower prefers full sun, but will tolerate part shade. Prepare a rich, loose soil that holds moisture well and has a pH level of 6.0-6.5. Cauliflower is a heavy feeder and will also benefit from applications of boron, calcium and magnesium, particularly during the early stages of growth.
HARVESTING OF CAULIFLOWER:
As small heads form, break over or tie together some of the tall leaves to protect heads from sunburning. Cauliflower is ready for harvest when heads are firm and still tightly clustered and adequately sized.
