How to grow cauliflower in a raised bed

Cauliflower is the cool-season prize — a little fussier than its brassica cousins, but a tight, creamy head you grew yourself is worth it. Netting a raised bed makes it far easier.

Quick facts

• Position: full sun
• Spacing: 50 cm apart
• Tub depth: our 35 cm depth
• Time to harvest: 14–22 weeks

When should I plant cauliflower?

Cauliflower is a cool-season crop — plant from late summer through autumn. Heat and stress make it 'button' into tiny heads, so steady, cool conditions matter. Our free garden calendar shows the right months for your postcode.

• Subtropical (Brisbane & SEQ): March to June
• Temperate (Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth): January to April
• Cool & mountain (Tasmania, Canberra, highlands): December to March
• Tropical (Cairns, Darwin): April to June
• Arid inland: February to June

How do I grow cauliflower in a raised bed?

Plant into rich, firm mix and keep growth steady — any check (dry spell, transplant shock) spoils the head. Cover the bed with insect netting to stop cabbage-white caterpillars. Snap a few outer leaves over the head to keep it white as it forms.

How often should I water and feed cauliflower?

Water deeply and consistently and feed well — cauliflower is hungry and thirsty, and uneven growth means poor heads.

What pests attack cauliflower?

Keep an eye out for caterpillars, aphids and whiteflies. Most are easily managed — see our safe pest guide.

What diseases affect cauliflower?

The main ones are downy mildew and leaf spot. Good airflow, morning watering and steady moisture prevent most.

What grows well with cauliflower?

Aromatic herbs and beetroot are good neighbours; keep brassicas away from strawberries. See our companion planting guide.

When do I harvest cauliflower?

Cut the head while it's tight and firm, before the florets start to separate. It doesn't hold long once ready, so don't leave it.

Plan your patch: our free garden calendar shows what to plant now where you live. Ready to grow? Browse our raised garden beds or build your own with the garden bed builder.

Image: Nidheesh.mp, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.