Cauliflower

Cauliflower is trickier to grow in some climates than its cousin, broccoli, but the effort is well worth it. And the reward of harvesting a large, attractive head from your garden will give a great sense of satisfaction.

Plants grow best in cool (below 70 degrees F) weather. In most locations it's best to plant it 90 days before the first fall frost so heads will mature during cool weather. Traditional white-headed cauliflowers required gardeners to tie leaves over the developing head to ensure mild flavor and development of snow-white curds. Some newer varieties have outer leaves that naturally cover the head, eliminating the need for blanching. Varieties that develop colored heads of orange, purple, or chartreuse also need no blanching.

Light:

Sun,Part Sun

Plant Type:

Vegetable

Plant Height:

8-30 inches tall

Plant Width:

8-30 inches wide

Top Varieties

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'Graffiti Hybrid' cauliflower

features bright purple heads that hold their color well even when cooked, especially if you add a little vinegar to cooking water to make it acidic. 85 days
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'Snow Crown Hybrid' cauliflower

is a standard white variety that's early maturing, widely adapted, and easy to grow. 55 days
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'Veronica Hybrid' cauliflower

is a romanesco-type that produces unique spiky lime-green heads with a mild, nutty flavor. 85 days
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Garden Plans

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Planting Plans Inspired by the White House Kitchen Garden

Harvest Tips

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For types that need blanching, cover the developing head when it is 2 inches in diameter. Harvest the head about 10 days later when it reaches 6-8 inches in diameter. Harvest heads of self-blanching and colored types when they reach full size and before curds begin to separate.

Propagation

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Seed