How long does it take cauliflower to grow?
Written by
Nguyen Minh
Reviewed by
Prof. Charles Hartman, Ph.D.Cauliflower takes a special touch. Like other crops, it prefers the cool temperature range of 50 degrees to 70 degrees Fahrenheit, but does poorly in heat or frost. You can start your seedlings indoors, then transplant them for the spring season. Alternatively, you can directly sow seeds in late summer. I had success with the variety Snow Crown, and I learned the most about patience in gardening through this cauliflower variety.
Variety Selection
- Early White Hybrid: 45 days, heat-tolerant
- Romanesco: 85 days, needs stable 60-65°F
- Purple Moon: 65 days, full sun required
Soil Requirements
- pH 6.5-7.2 to prevent clubroot
- Mix 3 inches compost into topsoil
- Avoid fresh manure, it burns roots
Timing Tips
- Spring: Transplant 2 weeks before last frost
- Fall: Start seeds 12 weeks before first frost
- Use shade cloth above 75°F
Observe head development regularly. After heads have reached 2-3 inches (5-7.6 cm), begin to blanch. Hold down the outer leaves using twine or rubber bands. Check every 3 days or so, as moisture can be trapped underneath the outer leaves, which can promote rot. Romanesco should all be harvested once heads are 8-10 inches (20-25 cm) for the characteristic fractal appearance.
Think wisely when troubleshooting. Buttoning is a result of temperature fluctuations that gather warmth by covering with row covers or blankets if cold is on its way. Yellow leaves? Increase nitrogen with fish emulsion. My Romanesco was a noticeable success after weekly kelp sprays. Share your harvests, nothing is better than homegrown and it always beats off the grocery store shelves.
Read the full article: How to Grow Cauliflower: 7 Essential Tips for Success
