Amazing Cauliflower

Cauliflower prefers rich, evenly moist soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. As with other members of the cabbage family, Cauliflower is a heavy feeder and will benefit from a generous addition of compost or well-rotted manure prior to planting. Moisture stability is paramount when growing cauliflower so taking the time to amend the soil before planting and mulching afterwards will pay dividends late in the season when the weather turns hot.

Cauliflower should be started indoors about two months before the average last frost, but plan on moving them outdoors about 4-5 weeks after sowing, when frost is still possible. Older cauliflower seedlings are especially sensitive to transplant shock, which causes small "button" heads to form in place of larger ones.

Cauliflower can be transplanted in spring when the weather is cool and frosts are still occurring. Harden off seedlings and transplant outdoors 18" apart in rows that are 24-36" apart. Keep soil evenly moist until plants are established.

Insect Pests

Very young direct-seeded plants are susceptible to flea beetles. Otherwise, the predominant threat to cabbages is the cabbage moth caterpillar. Floating row covers and biological controls like Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) are very effective at controlling caterpillar damage.

Diseases & Other Problems

Cauliflower is known for being somewhat finicky, but it is absolutely possible to grow large, beautiful cauliflower heads with the right varieties and a little bit of extra effort. The key to success is to keep the plants happy throughout the growing season and avoiding anything that might stress the plants. Transplant the seedlings within 4-5 weeks of sowing, keep them well watered until established, and ensure that the soil stays evenly moist throughout the growing season.

Cauliflower heads should be harvested while the curd (the white part) is dense and tight. Cut the head from the main stem and store in the fridge in an airtight container until ready to use. Cauliflower usually stores in the fridge for 1-2 weeks.

CONSIDERATIONS:

Saving seeds for cauliflower can be a bit tricky, particularly in climates with harsh winters and/or hot springs. Cauliflower being grown for seed is typically planted in mid-summer and transplanted outdoors in June or July. Cauliflower does not tolerate repeated hard freezes, so plants must be protected in harsh winter climates. It does require a vernalization or cooling period, however, to initiate flowering. Flowers will form the following spring and upon pollination, will form siliques, which are the seed-bearing structures of Brassica plants. Pollination is performed by insects. It is important to note that cauliflower can cross-pollinate with any of the cole crops (broccoli, cabbage, collards, kale, etc) so physical isolation is required when growing multiple crops or varieties. Provide shade if temperatures exceed 74 degrees Fahrenheit during pollination as this can cause the seed to abort.

HARVESTING SEED:

Once a majority of the siliques have dried, cut stalks from the plants and place on a tarp to complete the drying process. Stomp on the stalks to release the seeds and carefully pour into a tote or other container. Winnow to remove chaff and store in an airtight container until ready to use.

SEED LONGETIVITY:

Cauliflower seeds can remain viable for up to 5 years if stored properly in a cool, dry, and dark place.