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 to plant: 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 planting calendar shows the right months for your postcode.
Growing them 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.
Watering and feeding: Water deeply and consistently and feed well — cauliflower is hungry and thirsty, and uneven growth means poor heads.
Common pests: keep an eye out for caterpillars, aphids and whiteflies. Most are easily managed — see our safe pest guide.
Common diseases: the main ones are downy mildew and leaf spot. Good airflow, morning watering and steady moisture prevent most.
Companion plants: Aromatic herbs and beetroot are good neighbours; keep brassicas away from strawberries. See our companion planting guide.
Harvest and storage: 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 planting 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: Jeffery Martin, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons.
Share and get 15% off!
Simply share this product on one of the following social networks and you will unlock 15% off!