Cauliflower

Brassica oleracea var. botrytis · Vegetable

The fussiest of the cabbage family: it wants cool weather, rich soil and no check in growth. Stress from heat, drought or cold often gives tiny, early heads. Done right, it rewards with dense, mild curds.

💧Water2–3 times a week, evenly moist (estimated)

☀️LightFull sun

🐾PetsNot toxic

Care at a glance

Light: Full sun
Water: 1–1.5 in per week, never letting it dry out
Soil: Rich, moisture-retentive, pH 6.5–7.0
Temperature: Best 60–70 °F; heat over 80 °F spoils heads
Spacing: 18–24 in apart, rows 30 in
Container: At least 5 gallons, 12 in deep
Harvest: 55–100 days after transplanting (estimated)
Lifespan: Annual

When?

For spring heads, start seeds indoors 4–6 weeks before the last frost and plant out around the frost date. For autumn heads, sow in early summer so they mature in cool weather (estimated).

Step by step

Sow seeds 1/4 in deep in cells; they sprout in 5–10 days.
Plant out young, at 4–6 weeks; older root-bound seedlings form small heads.
Work compost into the bed and firm the soil.
Keep watering steady; any dry spell can trigger early, tiny heads.
Feed with nitrogen 3–4 weeks after planting.
When a 2–3 in head shows, fold outer leaves over it to keep it white.
Cut while the head is tight and smooth, before it loosens.

Common problems

Tiny button headsStress from drought, cold or old transplants; plant young, water evenly.

Yellow or purple tinge on headSun exposure; cover with leaves earlier.

Loose, grainy curdsHeat or late harvest; time crops for cool weather.

Green caterpillarsCabbage worms; use netting and hand-pick.

Pets

Not listed as toxic to cats or dogs. If in doubt, ask your vet.

Similar plants

Broccoli Cabbage Spinach

Sources

ASPCA — Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants

This page is general guidance; no pesticide doses are given.