Climate matters. This page is a practical baseline. Confirm cultivar, local frost/heat conditions, mature size and regional restrictions before planting.
Cauliflower — Growing reference
| Scientific name | Brassica oleracea var. botrytis |
|---|---|
| Seed germination (days) | 5–10 |
| Soil temperature for germination (°C) | 7.2–29.4 |
| First harvest or flowering (days) | 55–80 |
| Measured from | Transplant |
| Plant spacing (cm) | 45.7–61 |
| Mature height (cm) | 45.7–76.2 |
| Mature spread (cm) | 45.7–61 |
| USDA hardiness zones | 3–10 |
| Light | Full sun |
| Water | Moderate |
| Sowing method | indoor-start |
Growing directions
Sow 1/4 in deep in well-drained starter mix 6–8 weeks before transplanting; cauliflower is sensitive to temperature swings and nutrient deficiencies. When the developing curd is about the size of a golf ball, gather outer leaves over it and secure with a rubber band to blanch for white varieties. Harvest when the head is firm, tight, and 6–8 in across before the curds begin to separate. Consistent soil moisture and boron-sufficient soil prevent hollow stem and poor curd formation.
Source and local conditions
Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.
Source & verification
OpenPlantDB · CC0