Grown as an annual, most cauliflowers have a single stalk supporting a solid head of compacted edible flower buds. Due to their large root systems, they require quite a bit of space in the vegetable patch!
Top cauliflower plant growing facts
- Require very fertile soil
- Take up lots of space in the vegetable patch
- Heads need protection from watering and heavy rain to avoid damage
- Mature quickly
- Requires monitoring for birds and caterpillars
Where to grow cauliflower plants?
Cauliflower plants need very fertile soil and will take more manure and fertilisers than other brassicas. Dig in a bucketful of well-rotted manure or compost before planting to encourage growth. With a large root system, cauliflowers need deep soil, plenty of space and frequent feeding.
How to grow cauliflower plants?
As the plants mature the soil needs to be kept moist, but don’t water the actual head as this will cause damage. In heavy rain, the head will need some protection. Breaking off a leaf and using it to cover the head is also a good idea in extreme heat or cold.
When to plant cauliflower?
Depending on the variety some need planting in spring so they grow their flower heads before the heat of summer. Other cauliflower varieties are suitable for planting in mid-summer.
How far apart should cauliflowers be planted?
Cauliflower plants need to be planted about 60cm between each plant and 60cm between each row. The distance between the plants will affect the size of the cauliflower head.
When do I harvest cauliflower plants?
Harvest cauliflower plants when the heads are looking at their best and before the florets begin to separate. If growth is inhibited at any time due to a lack of food or water, your cauliflower plants will actually start to produce less than perfect, deformed heads.
Ways to eat cauliflower
Cauliflower cheese may be very nice, but there really is more than can be done with this wonderful vegetable. Cauliflower can be used for soup, soufflés, baked in a white sauce, eaten cold with a dip as a crudités or turned into a pickle. Cauliflower is also popular in gluten-free and low-calorie diets as an alternative to rice and flour. However you choose to cook cauliflower, don’t overcook it, as it’ll go mushy!
Cauliflower nutritional information
Much like broccoli, water makes up around 90% of cauliflower plants. However, the plant is also rich in vitamins C, K and B6, as well as being a rich source of potassium and fibre.
You may also be interested in Suttons cauliflower seeds and other popular vegetable plants.
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