Cauliflower

Cauliflower needs fertile, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil around pH 6.0-7.5. Add compost and side-dress with nitrogen after establishment; uninterrupted growth in cool weather is essential because stress can cause tiny heads or poor curds.

Sun

Full sun

Water

Even moisture; about 1 in/week including rain

Spacing

24 in

First harvest

60–90 days

Tips

• Transplant young, non-rootbound seedlings 18-24 inches apart without burying the growing point.
• Provide 1-1 1/2 inches of water weekly and mulch to buffer moisture and temperature changes.
• Use insect netting at planting and check regularly for cabbageworms and aphids.
• For white varieties requiring blanching, loosely tie outer leaves over a small curd when dry and check it frequently.
• Cut the head while the curd is compact and firm, before it loosens into a rice-like texture.

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