Cauliflowers are a member of the Brassica family, which includes broccoli, Brussels sprouts and cabbage. You can grow them from seeds or seedlings, and depending on the type, they should be ready to eat 50 to 80 days after planting. Traditionally cauliflowers are white, but for something different, try colours including purple, green and orange.
Cauliflowers are a good source of iron, potassium, magnesium, vitamin C, and vitamin K. You can use them to make classic dishes like cheesy cauliflower bake or try new ones like cauliflower pizza or low-carb cauliflower rice.
These days cauliflowers can be planted in almost any area of Australia. Check for local varieties.
Cauliflower is a fascinating vegetable to grow. From planting the seeds to harvesting the head, it undergoes a series of transformations that reflect its changing needs. Understanding the stages of cauliflower growth enables you to provide the right care at the right time for a bountiful harvest.
In this article, we’ll explore the cauliflower’s growth cycle in detail, with helpful pictures illustrating each phase. Whether you’re new to cauliflower cultivation or looking to get better results from your plants you’ll gain valuable insights into supporting their development.
Stage 1: Germination
It all starts with the seed. Cauliflower seeds typically germinate within 5-10 days when planted in moist fertile soil at a temperature of 65°F to 70°F. You’ll see the first seed leaves (cotyledons) emerge from the soil followed by the development of true leaves.
Proper spacing is important even at this early stage, so sow seeds 1⁄4 to 1⁄2 inch deep and 2 to 6 inches apart Closer spacing creates overcrowded seedlings competing for resources Remember, consistent moisture and warmth are vital for robust germination.
Cauliflower seeds with seed leaves emerging after germination
Stage 2: Seedling
Once seedlings have 2-4 true leaves and reach about 4-6 inches tall, they are ready for transplanting into the garden. Sturdy stems and vigorous foliage indicate healthy development.
To avoid transplant shock, gradually expose seedlings to outdoor conditions over 7-10 days, a process called hardening off. Space transplants 18-24 inches apart in all directions to allow ample room for growth. Plant at the same depth as their containers.
Robust cauliflower seedlings ready for transplanting
Stage 3: Vegetative Growth
Now the fun begins! The transplant quickly establishes its root system and you’ll notice rapid leaf growth. The plant directs its energy toward building a healthy vegetative foundation to support curd development.
Ensure consistent 1-1.5 inch weekly watering to aid growth. Weed and mulch around plants to suppress competition and retain moisture. Slow-release fertilizer provides a steady nutrient supply.
Cauliflower plant showing vigorous vegetative growth
Stage 4: Curd Initiation
Within 45-65 days after transplanting, you’ll notice the beginning of curd formation in the center of the plant. It starts as a small mass of immature flower buds that will eventually form the curd.
No special care is needed at this stage, just continue your regimen of watering, weeding and pest monitoring. However, once the curd becomes egg-sized, it’s time to blanch.
Early stages of curd development
Stage 5: Curd Development
Here’s where the magic happens! The small curd rapidly enlarges over 14-21 days, transforming into the compact “head” we know and love. Proper blanching is crucial now to maintain white curds.
When the curd is egg-sized, tie outer leaves over it to block sunlight, which causes yellowing. Check that leaves are dry before blanching to prevent rot. Maintain even soil moisture and nutrients.
Blanched cauliflower curd developing under tied leaves
Stage 6: Maturity
It’s harvest time! Look for heads 6-8 inches across that are pure white, compact and firm. A mature cauliflower is typically ready for cutting 50-100 days from transplanting, depending on variety and climate.
Use a sharp knife to cut the curd, leaving some stem and attached leaves to protect it. Rinse, dry and enjoy! Refrigerate for 5-7 days of storage or consider freezing for long-term preservation.
A beautifully mature cauliflower ready for harvest
Understanding the unique needs of cauliflower during each growth phase is invaluable for success. While it may seem complex at first, a little experience goes a long way. Soon you’ll have a intuitive grasp of how to nurture each stage for an abundant harvest of gorgeous curds!
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Step 1 – Sowing seeds
- You can plant seeds directly in the ground or in seed trays, and then move them later.
- If you want to plant seeds in the ground, put two or three seeds next to each other every 30 cm in rows 40 cm apart, and water the seeds to a depth of about 1 cm. Cover lightly with soil.
- Put one to two seeds in each single cell of a tray until they are 1 cm deep. Cover lightly with Seasol Seed Raising & Cutting Potting Mix.
- Mix 30mL of Seasol concentrate with 9 liters of water and water the seeds well. Seasol helps the seeds germinate faster.
Note: This is not cauliflower seeds, it’s just an illustration to show seeds being planted.
Step 5 – Cauliflower plant growth
- Cauliflower plants like it when the soil is moist, so check it every day and water as needed. If you can, water the plant around the base in the morning instead of the leaves. To keep diseases like powdery mildew from spreading, this will make sure the leaves are dry by nightfall.
- Remove any weeds that are competing with the plants by hand to make sure the beds are clear. To keep pests like aphids away, you might want to plant companion plants like nasturtiums.
- Put down a layer of mulch, like pea straw or sugar cane mulch, to keep the soil warm and moist. This also helps to reduce the number of weeds.
CAULIFLOWER Time-lapse
FAQ
What does cauliflower look like when it starts to grow?
What are the stages of cauliflower flowering?
How long does cauliflower take to grow?
What are the four stages of cauliflower growth?
There are four main stages of cauliflower growth: germination, seedling, vegetative, and maturation or flowering stages. Let’s look at their growing stages in detail! Below are the four key stages of cauliflower growth you must know about to prepare you when you want to grow the plant.
How does cauliflower grow?
During the vegetative stage of cauliflower, heads will be formed and the general cauliflower will grow in height and wide. As a person who is growing cauliflower, you need to supplement the cauliflower during this growing stage with regular watering and weeding.
What is the vegetative stage of cauliflower?
At this vegetative stage of cauliflower, it starts to grow in height and width. The heads are the edible part of the plant, and during this stage, the formation of the heads commences. It is necessary to meet the plant’s light, nutrient, and water needs during this period. Purified tap water can be used without any issues.
When do cauliflowers start producing heads?
Because so many factors influence how quickly your plants make it through the cauliflower growing stages, it’s hard to say just when your crops will start producing heads. However, in general, cauliflowers begin developing heads 50 to 70 days after being transplanted into your garden.
Why does cauliflower grow flowers after the vegetative stage?
After the vegetative stage, Cauliflower begins to grow flowers. This is a primary feature of higher plants and signifies their reproduction. Therefore, Cauliflower has matured enough at this flowering stage and developed all the necessary parts for reproduction.
How long does it take to grow cauliflower?
The process that includes a seed sprouting and the first leaves starting to appear is called germination. Cauliflowers are annual plants that grow from seeds. Cauliflowers are best planted during spring or fall. If so, you’ll get the harvest in three to five months. You can either start the cauliflower life cycle in seed trays or in the garden.