Planting

Cauliflower

Planting Time Cauliflower loves cool weather, so plant in early spring or fall when temps stay steady. Think of cauliflower as that relative who won’t visit unless the weather is “just right.” Too hot and it throws a fit, too cold and it sulks. Aim for mild, gentle temperatures so your plants don’t start acting like moody teenagers.

Depth & Spacing Set transplants at the same depth they were growing in the nursery pot. Space them 18 inches apart so they can get plenty of breathing room, and stretch the Rows shorter, like 24 inches apart—just enough space for you to walk through feeling like the sheriff of Garden Town. Treat me cauliflower respects a gardener who walks tall.

Soil & Fertilization Cauliflower is a heavy feeder, hungrier than a redneck at a catfish fry. Mix in compost, aged manure, and a balanced fertilizer before planting. Keep nutrients coming throughout the season so this plant can grow big and curved, a giant growing like you. Be standing there wondering why your cauliflower is the size of a golf ball instead of a Sunday roast centerpiece.

Watering Needs Keep soil evenly moist—consistent like morning coffee or your favorite old pickup that always starts. If cauliflower dries out, the plant may button-hook, so just keep her up. A drip line works wonders, and mulching helps hold moisture so you’re not out there babysitting your plants like a helicopter parent.

Sunlight Requirements Give cauliflower full sun, at least 6 hours daily. More sun means tighter, prettier heads. Without enough light, your plants grow tall, spindly, and confused—like they’re wandering in the nearest exit. Plant them where they can soak up the rays and flex their leafy muscles.

Harvesting Harvest when the heads are firm, tight, and snow-white. If they start to separate or discolor, you’ve waited too long. Cut the head with a few wrapper leaves left to protect it. Nothing says “I’m a garden legend” like showing off a cauliflower the size of a bowling ball—bonus points if you carry it inside like a newborn baby.

Captain Greenhouse Tip Cauliflower can sunburn faster than a tourist in Phoenix wearing SPF-0. If your curds start to yellow, gently pull the outer leaves over the head and tie them loosely. This little trick—called blanching—keeps the head crisp, clean, and whiter than Uncle Bubba’s church socks. Your cauliflower will stay tender and fancy looking, and you’ll look like the kind of gardener who actually knows what they’re doing. That is a win, partner!