Does cauliflower need full sun?
Written by
Nguyen Minh
Reviewed by
Prof. Charles Hartman, Ph.D.Learning how to grow cauliflower showed me that the light needs of crops vary by region. In my garden in the Southern United States, I avoided roasting the heads by providing them afternoon shade, while friends in the North extended their days by maximizing light exposure. I aim for 6-8 hours of sunlight, but adjust the hours based on heat for the region and the heat of the season.
Hot Climates (Zones 7-10)
- Provide afternoon shade above 85°F (29°C)
- Use 30% shade cloth or plant near taller crops
- Mulch heavily to retain soil moisture
Cool Climates (Zones 3-6)
- Maximize full sun for 8+ hours daily
- Use black plastic mulch to warm soil
- Row covers protect against early frosts
Partial Shade Solutions
- 4-5 hours of sun + dappled light
- Ideal for container gardens or urban spaces
- Reflective mulch boosts light efficiency
Observe leaf color to assess light level, deep green indicates proper conditions for your plant. Yellowing can indicate too much sun, while leggy growth can indicate not enough light. I once saved plants that were stressed from having too much sun by using a shade tarp that I rigged up, the heads plumped up within two weeks.
Take advantage of sunlight while being cautious with consistent watering. In hot areas, water generously early in the morning for the plants to soak up water before the high noon heat. I have a neighbor in Arizona who has always sworn by terracotta pots, they pull moisture slowly, and do not let the roots burn in the hot sun.
Read the full article: How to Grow Cauliflower: 7 Essential Tips for Success
