
For ordinary white cauliflower, if this head is exposed to light while it is growing, it will yellow and darken. As the cauliflower grows, a small "head" will begin to form at the center of its leaves (note that this is sometimes also called the "curd").
To prevent pests from reaching your cauliflower, try cutting old milk jugs in half and laying them over the seedlings for protection.īlanch the head to prevent it from darkening. Using the wrong pesticide or applying pesticide incorrectly could damage your plants or make the vegetable unsafe to eat. You can also use plant-friendly pesticides, but read the label carefully. Look up integrated pest management practices to find out more. Nontoxic pest treatments include diatomaceous earth, soap sprays, and cultural practices such as controlling humidity or introducing predator insects. Some of these pests can interfere with the cauliflower's growth cycle - others can eat the plant to ground, ruining your crop entirely, so managing these pests at the first sign of trouble is a top concern for serious gardeners. X Research source This especially true in cases where cauliflower is being planted as a spring crop, as the end of the winter months usually coincide with a surge in insect populations. When cauliflower seedlings are young and fragile, they are vulnerable to a variety of garden pests, including cabbageworm, aphids, harlequin bugs, and more. X Trustworthy Source University of California Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources Extension program of the University of California system devoted to educating and improving local communities Go to source X Research sourceīe ready to protect young cauliflower from pests. The coastal valleys of California are the only major exception, and can support year-round crops. Temperate climates: Spring-planted cauliflower is difficult to grow in most climates. Warm climates: If you have frost-free winters, you can plant cauliflower seeds later in autumn, once temperatures have dropped below 80✯ (27✬). Start the seeds 8 to 12 weeks before the first fall frost.
Cool climates: If your late summer temperatures are below 80✯ (27✬), you can plant cauliflower for a fall harvest. X Research source This means that the proper planting time depends on your climate: Ideally, the daytime temperature while the cauliflower is maturing will be around 60✯ (15.5✬). Most cauliflower varieties require about 1.5-3 months of consistently cool weather to mature properly. Plan to grow cauliflower in cool weather.