Growing Cauliflower

brassica oleracea var. botrytus botrytus : Brassicaceae / the mustard or cabbage family

Jan F M A M J J A S O N Dec
  S S                  
      T                
      P                

(Best months for growing Cauliflower in USA - Zone 5a regions)

  • S = Plant undercover in seed trays
  • T = Plant out (transplant) seedlings
  • P = Sow seed
  • Grow in seed trays, and plant out in 4-6 weeks. Sow seed at a depth approximately three times the diameter of the seed. Best planted at soil temperatures between 50°F and 86°F. (Show °C/cm)
  • Space plants: 24 - 39 inches apart
  • Harvest in 15-22 weeks.
  • Compatible with (can grow beside): Dwarf (bush) beans, beets, celery, cucumber, onions, marigold, nasturtium, rhubarb, aromatic herbs (sage, dill, chamomile)
  • Avoid growing close to: Climbing (pole) beans, tomato, peppers (chili, capsicum), eggplant (aubergine), strawberry, mustard
  • A variety of purple cauliflower
  • Mature cauliflower

Large leafed cabbage-like with a white 'curd' or flower forming in the centre. It can be hard to grow successfully. More frost sensitive than most brassicas, it's also not particularly heat tolerant. They tend to fail if stressed when transplanting.

Watch for cabbage white butterfly. Grow better in cooler temperatures. Not suitable for warm areas. Break a leaf over the head to prevent the curd becoming discoloured.

Culinary hints - cooking and eating Cauliflower

Cauliflower can be eaten raw, steamed, stirfried, grilled, or roasted. Popular grated and steamed/stirfried as a low-carb rice substitute.
Cook briefly and add to curry mix.
Traditionally served with cheese sauce. Add tomato slices for colour.
Toss with oil and spices and roast/grill until browned and delicious!

Your comments and tips

04 May 20, (USA - Zone 7b climate)
I am new to gardening and want to grow cauliflower in my raised bed garden, where can I get good seeds and when can I plant the seeds?
17 Sep 20, Daniel Stephens (USA - Zone 9a climate)
I buy my seeds at Urbanfarmer.com and truleaf.com both have great seeds and selection is very good
16 Jun 20, Melanie (USA - Zone 9a climate)
What is the best variety of cauliflower to grow in zone 9a?
15 Aug 22, Dale Roth (USA - Zone 5a climate)
when should i plant plants in St.louis mo. for fall Cauliflower and Broccoli for fall harvest. Thank you
04 Sep 22, (USA - Zone 5a climate)
It says plant Feb to April.

Michael, I don't know which climate area you are in, but you can still plant out cauliflower seedlings during colder weather. In tubs, protected from frost they should grow well. They will spread their leaves to about 1 1/2 x 2 feet (40x60cm),bigger leaves mean better sized curds.

- Liz

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This planting guide is a general reference intended for home gardeners. We recommend that you take into account your local conditions in making planting decisions. Gardenate is not a farming or commercial advisory service. For specific advice, please contact your local plant suppliers, gardening groups, or agricultural department. The information on this site is presented in good faith, but we take no responsibility as to the accuracy of the information provided.
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