Planting Cauliflower

Cauliflower likes to grow in full sun and rich, moist, well-drained soil with a pH between 6 and 7. Till the soil to loosen it to a depth of 12-15 inches. Then, work in a 3-inch layer of nutrient-rich compost or garden soil, such as Miracle-Gro® Garden Soil for Vegetables & Herbs, into the top 6 inches of native soil.

When should I plant cauliflower?
How long does it take to grow cauliflower?
How close can I plant cauliflower?
What is a good companion plant for cauliflower?
Does cauliflower regrow after cutting?
Is cauliflower difficult to grow?
Can cauliflower be grown in pots?
How do you prepare and cook cauliflower?
How do you protect cauliflower from insects?
Why are my cauliflower heads so small?
Can you eat cauliflower leaves?
Why is my cauliflower not forming heads?

When should I plant cauliflower?

You can sow Cauliflower in late March, early May and early June for a long cropping season. I highly recommend sowing your cauliflower in modular trays. You can sow directly into the soil but I think you'll have better success with this method for the following reasons: Excellent crop establishment.

How long does it take to grow cauliflower?

For best growth, side-dress the plants with a high-nitrogen fertilizer 3 t o 4 weeks after transplanting. Note that the cauliflower will start out as a loose head and that it takes time for the head to fully form. Many varieties take at least 75 to 85 days from transplant.

How close can I plant cauliflower?

Plant cauliflower in rows with each plant spaced 18 inches apart. Rows should be 30 inches apart. Improve your native soil by mixing in several inches of compost or other rich organic matter. Add a 3-inch layer of mulch and give plants 1 to 1.5 inches of water weekly.

What is a good companion plant for cauliflower?

Beans, celery, and onions are all excellent choices when companion planting cauliflower. Beans and cauliflower are an ideal combo. Both plants deter pests and attract beneficial insects.

Does cauliflower regrow after cutting?

Your cauliflower plant will continue to grow even after you cut off the head. To maintain your plant, give it 1–1.5 in (2.5–3.8 cm) of water once a week. Along with normal rainfall, this should be plenty to keep your plants healthy. Harvest cauliflower florets as they grow.

Is cauliflower difficult to grow?

Cauliflower may be a bit more challenging to grow than other garden vegetables, such as kale and chard, but with these few simple steps you'll be able to grow this hearty vegetable, which is high in fiber, vitamin C and a good source of several other nutrients.

Can cauliflower be grown in pots?

Any type of container will work, but be sure it has at least one good drainage hole in the bottom, as your cauliflower plants will rot quickly in soggy soil. For growing cauliflower in containers, the plants need a loose, lightweight potting mix that holds moisture and nutrients but drains well.

How do you prepare and cook cauliflower?

Cooked cauliflower florets keep their shape best when steamed (5-10 mins) – remember to place them upright in the steamer. It can also be boiled (takes 5-10 mins for florets; around 10 mins for a whole cauliflower). For both cooking methods, test regularly with the tip of a knife to make sure they don't overcook.

How do you protect cauliflower from insects?

This is achieved by gathering the longest outer leaves together at the head and tying them with twine. Remove the twine periodically to check on the progress of the head, check for pests and to allow the head to dry out after rain. Self blanching varieties are available which grow leaves which naturally cover the head.

Why are my cauliflower heads so small?

If growth is checked, at any time during growth, they produce small, deformed heads. To avoid problems, water plants well the day before transplanting and make a hole deep enough to hold the plant with the lowest leaves at ground level.

Can you eat cauliflower leaves?

Abstractly, we probably all realize that cauliflower leaves are perfectly edible—they can be used just like any of your other favorite dark leafy greens.

Why is my cauliflower not forming heads?

Poorly draining soil leaves roots vulnerable to nibbling nematodes, slugs, and snails that can impair the ability of the plant to take up water and nutrients. In addition, these insects may spread diseases to weakened plants. If your cauliflower has consistently wet feet, it may fail to produce heads.