When to Plant Cauliflower?

When is the best time to plant cauliflower?

Cauliflower is one of the most popular cabbages in the vegetable garden. Not only because it tastes delicious, but also because it's so versatile. To grow it successfully, planting time is crucial—depending on the variety, you can grow cauliflower in spring, summer, or even winter.

For spring planting in the open ground, you usually start from late March to mid-May. Wait until the soil has more or less warmed up and the frost has passed. Cauliflower doesn't like its feet too cold or too wet, so choose a dry, mostly cloudy day for planting. In the greenhouse, you can start earlier, starting in February. Ensure there is sufficient ventilation to prevent the young plants from developing mold.

Early vs. late cauliflower: what's the difference?

Just like other cabbages, there are different varieties of cauliflower. The "early" cauliflower plants are often ready for harvest between May and June. These are best planted in early spring. Late cauliflower, however, can be planted as late as August and is only ready for harvest in the fall or even early winter.

Early varieties benefit from the spring sun but are more at risk of night frost. Protect these young plants with a fleece, if necessary. Late varieties are generally hardier but grow more slowly. If you plant in summer, ensure they have plenty of water and shade during dry heat.

Planting cauliflower in open ground

In open ground, cauliflower needs space and air. Plant the seedlings at least 50 cm apart in rows so they can develop fully. Loosen the soil well and mix in compost or well-rotted manure. This provides nutrients and good drainage.

A partly cloudy day is a good time to plant, as it prevents your plants from being stressed by the sun. Water immediately after planting and, if necessary, cover with netting to deter cabbage whites or snails. Remember: cauliflowers like moisture, but not wet feet. A layer of mulch helps with this.

Planting cauliflower in a greenhouse

Do you have a greenhouse? Then you're in luck. You can start much earlier! Start your young cauliflower plants under glass starting in mid-February. Use potting soil that's airy and nutrient-rich. You can add perlite, for example, to improve aeration. Check out our potting soil supplements like perlite and coconut husk in our webshop.

Keep a close eye on the temperature in the greenhouse. On sunny days, you risk burning your young plants. So ensure good ventilation and a cloth for shade. Watering is important, but preferably in the morning to prevent mold.

Tips for growing healthy cauliflowers

Proper care after planting is just as important as the right timing. Cauliflower needs a lot of nutrients, so fertilize regularly with potassium-rich food. Also, ensure a stable moisture level in the soil. It's best to water at the base of the plant, not on the leaves.

Want to protect the beautiful white flower from yellowing? You can gently drape a few large leaves over the head to create a natural parasol. This way, your cauliflower will stay beautifully white and crisp.

Are you also considering planting other cabbages? Our blog post about when to plant cabbages offers plenty of interesting tips related to cauliflower.

Crop rotation and combinations

Cauliflower belongs to the cruciferous family. This means you shouldn't plant it in the same spot in the garden every year. Rotation is important to prevent soil-borne diseases. So, it's best to wait three years before planting it again in the same spot.

A nice combination? Plant your cauliflower with celery or dill. These plants keep harmful insects at bay. Avoid peas or beans nearby, as they don't make good neighbors for cabbage varieties.

Additional tools for success

To give your cauliflower plants the best start, you can start them in seed pots. You can find these in our seed pot collection. Are you having trouble with pests like fungus gnats in your greenhouse or container? Then use our sticky traps to protect your young plants.

Another handy aid is the repotting mat , so that you can transfer plants cleanly and organized without spilling soil.

Would you like to know more about plants?

Are you completely up to speed and want to learn more about planting at the right time? Then be sure to check out other blogs, such as when to plant broccoli or when to plant winter cauliflower . These are also useful if you want to spread your crop over several seasons.

Want to learn more about choosing potting soil? This collection of potting soil & accessories is a treasure trove of information and products to help you.

Ready to plant?

Whether you choose early spring cabbage or winter cauliflower, with the right timing—and a little love—you'll soon be harvesting delicious cauliflower from your own garden. Ensure healthy soil, some pest protection, and plenty of water. The reward is enormous: a crisp, fresh cauliflower, straight from your own garden.

Looking for tips on other easy-to-grow plants, or simply want to enjoy greenery without any worries? You're sure to find something you'll love in our collection of easy-to-grow houseplants —green or not!