Cauliflower is a cruciferous vegetable that belongs to the Brassica oleracea species, which also includes broccoli, cabbage, kale, and Brussels sprouts. Originally from the Mediterranean region, cauliflower has been cultivated for over 2,000 years and was introduced to European countries in the 16th century. It comes in various colors, such as white, green, purple, and orange, with white being the most common.
Rich in nutrients and antioxidants, cauliflower is known for its health benefits, including fighting inflammation, supporting digestion, and reducing the risk of certain cancers. It's an excellent source of vitamins C, K, and B6, as well as dietary fiber, folate, and potassium.
Cauliflower is extremely versatile and can be prepared in numerous ways, such as steamed, roasted, or even mashed as a substitute for potatoes. It has gained popularity in recent years as a low-carb alternative and can be used as a base for pizza crusts, rice substitutes, and even incorporated into smoothies. Cauliflower pairs well with bold flavors like garlic, curry, and cheese, as well as with fresh herbs like parsley and dill.
This is advice is most applicable to growers in the UK, you may need to adjust the timings if you live somewhere with a different climate and/or seasons.
| Month | Tasks | Advice |
|---|---|---|
| January | sow, | Sow cauliflower seeds indoors in seed trays or modules. |
| February | sow, | Continue sowing cauliflower seeds indoors. |
| March | sow, plant out, | Finish sowing seeds indoors, plant out seedlings when they have two leaves, and are 5-6 weeks old. Harden them off first. |
| April | plant out, | Plant out seedlings when they are 5-6 weeks old and have two leaves, ensuring they are spaced 60cm apart. |
| May | - | - |
| June | harvest, | Begin harvesting early-maturing varieties of cauliflower. |
| July | harvest, | Harvest cauliflowers when the heads are firm and before they start to separate. |
| August | harvest, | Harvest cauliflowers when the heads are firm and before they start to separate. |
| September | sow, harvest, | Sow winter-hardy varieties indoors for overwintering. Harvest any remaining cauliflowers. |
| October | plant out, | Plant out overwintering cauliflower seedlings when they are 5-6 weeks old. |
| November | - | - |
| December | - | - |
