Moisture range
40–60%
Days to maturity
70–100
Light
Full sun
Growing Degree Units
1250 · base 40°F
Growing notes
For the best quality cauliflower, grow it in rich, moist soil without drought stress. Dense, flavorful curds grow in cool temperatures, between 50°F and 70°F.
Harvest signs
when heads reach usable size, before the flower buds open. Heads should be smooth, firm, and compact
▶Planting reference— Depth, spacing, pH, light
▶Pests & diseases— flea beetles, imported cabbage worm, cabbage looper, diamondback moth, +6 more
Common pests · 7
Flea beetles: chew small holes in leaves (Seedlings are most vulnerable to injury from this feeding) ↗
Imported cabbage worm: larvae feed on the leaves (Young seedlings and transplants are most vulnerable to injury from this feeding) ↗
Cabbage looper: larvae feed on the leaves (Young seedlings and transplants are most vulnerable to injury from this feeding) ↗
Diamondback moth: larvae feed on the leaves (Young seedlings and transplants are most vulnerable to injury from this feeding) ↗
Cabbage maggots: feed on the roots, injuring the plants, sometimes killing them ↗
Swede midge: can cause cauliflower to produce no crown ↗
Cabbageworms: eat large, irregular holes in the foliage ↗
Companions & antagonists
Plant near:DillMarigold
Keep apart from:Tomato
Tip: Blanch heads by tying leaves over curd.
Common questions
How much water does cauliflower need?
Cauliflower is water-sensitive — shallow roots and a steady thirst. Keep soil moisture in roughly the 40–60% range and don't let it dry out fully, or growth stalls and leafy crops turn bitter.
Can I grow cauliflower in a raised bed or container?
Yes — cauliflower does well in raised beds and is happy in a decent-sized container too, as long as drainage is good.
Does cauliflower come back every year?
No — cauliflower is an annual. It completes its life in one season, so you replant it each year.