Growing Cauliflower

Cauliflower can be challenging to grow due to its preference for cool weather.

When growing in the spring it is best to start your seeds indoors 4-5 weeks before the last frost date. Sow seeds at a depth of 1/2". You will need a good light source as cauliflower needs plenty of light. Fluorescent lights are the preferred method, but they can be grown in a south-facing window. Fluorescent lights should be set at 16 hours of light per day.

Transplant your seedlings after the last frost date. Space the plants at 2-foot intervals with rows 2 feet apart. Keep well-watered and add compost every 2 weeks.

You can also grow cauliflower as a fall crop, starting the seeds about 75 days before first frost. You can either start them indoors or direct-seed them in your garden. Here in OhioI start them in late August so that I have mature heads by our first frost date (late October).