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Cauliflower

Brassica oleracea var. botrytis

Vegetable

Cauliflower is one of the more demanding brassicas, requiring consistent cool temperatures and even moisture to form tight, white curds. Blanching the curd by tying leaves over it protects colour and flavour.

Growing Conditions

Sunlight

Full Sun

Water Needs

Moderate

Soil

Rich, well-draining loam; pH 6.0–7.0

Spacing

18–24 inches

Days to Maturity

80–100 days from transplant

Growing Zones

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13

Thrives in USDA Zones 3–10

Companion Planting

Good Companions

Keep Away From

When to Plant

  • Start Indoors

    6–8 weeks before last frost

  • Transplant

    2–4 weeks before last frost

  • Harvest

    80–100 days from transplant; harvest before curd separates

Organic Growing Tips

  • Tie outer leaves over developing curds to blanch them white and protect from frost.

  • Side-dress with compost or compost tea monthly — cauliflower is a heavy feeder.

  • Use dill interplanted to attract parasitic wasps that prey on caterpillar pests.

  • Rotate all brassicas strictly — never grow in the same ground more than once every 4 years.

Common Pests

  • Cabbage White Caterpillar
  • Aphids
  • Clubroot
  • Whitefly
  • Downy Mildew

All pest management in Garden uses safe, organic, non-toxic methods only. No synthetic pesticides, ever.