INFO:

The above cauliflower is from a batch of seedlings planted towards the end of July. The plants suffered a bit from cabbage white caterpillars so looked rather untidy but all of them produced good heads. If you have some space in the tunnel in July, an Octoberu002FNovember cauliflower is a welcome bonus. The fact that temperatures are lower also means that the heads will stand for longer before spoiling so you don't have to be as quick to pick as you would in summer. It's always worth keeping in mind that, as far as the cauliflower is concerned, the firm heads that we want are only half way to what the plant is trying to achieve. The lovely white curds are immature flower buds which will, if left, mature into heads of yellow flowers and, eventually, seed. We are trying to pluck cauliflower perfection from mid way through the cycle so, when heads are forming we need to check them every day. Cauliflower likes cool growing conditions and quite high humidity. They need a deep rich soil and must be kept well watered throughout the season. Any check in their growing cycle will result in tiny heads and a frustrated gardener! Always remember to choose the right cauliflower variety for the time of year.