Step-by-Step Growing Guide
Cauliflower is the most demanding and least forgiving brassica — it requires precise cool temperatures (10–18°C) during head development. Any heat stress, cold shock, or inconsistent watering produces small, loose, or discoloured heads (called 'buttoning'). Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before transplanting for spring crops; transplant when temperatures reliably stay below 24°C. Grow in deeply prepared, fertile soil at pH 6.0–7.5. Incorporate generous compost and 200g per square metre of balanced fertiliser. Space 60–75cm apart in rows 75–90cm apart. Water abundantly and consistently — up to 4cm per week — never allowing soil to dry. Feed with nitrogen fertiliser every 3 weeks. As the central head (curd) begins to form and reaches 5–8cm across, draw outer leaves together over the curd and secure loosely with a rubber band — this 'blanching' keeps curds white and tender, preventing sunlight from creating a yellow or purple discolouration (except in coloured varieties).