Igloo Cauliflower seeds
Igloo Cauliflower is a superb choice for both home gardeners and commercial growers, prized for its dependability and resilience in cooler climates. This late-maturing variety produces solid, bright white heads averaging seven inches in diameter, perfect for fresh eating, freezing, or processing. One of Igloo's standout features is its natural protection against the elements. Its vigorous growth habit includes large, dense leaves that wrap around the head, shielding it from frost and sun damage to ensure a beautiful, white curd.
This variety thrives in the cooler months and is a reliable producer even when temperatures fluctuate. Igloo Cauliflower is a versatile choice for your garden, offering both flexibility and quality. Whether you're a seasoned grower or just starting out, Igloo Cauliflower is a fantastic addition to your vegetable patch, promising delicious results with minimal fuss.
Seed count: 50
Botanic name:
Brassica oleracea
Plant spacing:
- 18"-24" apart
- 34" - 36" for rows
Color:
Bright green foliage with bright white heads
Sowing depth:
1/4"
Sun requirements:
Full sun
Utilization:
Igloo Cauliflower offers a range of culinary possibilities, thanks to its tender texture and mild flavor. Enjoy it fresh in salads, crudité platters, or sliced and dipped in your favorite hummus. Roasting brings out Igloo's natural sweetness, making it a delicious side dish when tossed with herbs and spices. This variety is also perfect for freezing, ensuring you have fresh cauliflower on hand throughout the year. Consider ricing Igloo for a healthy, low-carb alternative to traditional rice, perfect for stir-fries, as a base for grain bowls, or even pizza crusts. Its versatility makes it a welcome addition to soups, stews, and casseroles.
Frost hardy:
Yes
Maturity days:
70-80 days
Life cycle:
Annual
Start indoors:
Yes
Container friendly:
Yes
Other names:
Igloo White Cauliflower
Growing instructions:
Cauliflower is a cool-weather crop that can be a bit finicky to grow, but with the right care, you can enjoy fresh, homegrown heads. Here's a comprehensive guide to growing cauliflower from seed:
**Starting Indoors:**
1. **Timing:** Start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last expected spring frost or 10-12 weeks before the first fall frost.
2. **Seed Starting Mix:** Use a seed-starting mix that is loose and well-draining.
3. **Planting:** Sow seeds about 1/4 inch deep in individual pots or cells.
4. **Watering:** Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
5. **Light:** Provide plenty of bright, indirect light. A grow light can be beneficial.
6. **Temperature:** Maintain a temperature of around 70-75°F (21-24°C) for optimal germination.
7. **Thinning:** If more than one seedling emerges per cell, thin to the strongest one.
8. **Fertilizing:** Once the seedlings have a few true leaves, begin fertilizing with a balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength.
**Hardening Off:**
1. **Gradual Transition:** About a week before transplanting, start hardening off the seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions.
2. **Increased Exposure:** Begin with an hour or two of outdoor time in a sheltered location, gradually increasing the duration and exposure to sun and wind each day.
**Transplanting:**
1. **Timing:** Transplant seedlings outdoors 2-4 weeks before the last spring frost or when daytime temperatures are consistently below 75°F (24°C) for fall planting.
2. **Soil Preparation:** Choose a location with full sun and well-drained soil. Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter.
3. **Spacing:** Space seedlings 18-24 inches apart in rows 30 inches apart.
4. **Planting Depth:** Plant the seedlings at the same depth they were growing in their pots.
5. **Watering:** Water deeply after transplanting and keep the soil consistently moist.
**Direct Sowing:**
1. **Timing:** Direct sow seeds outdoors 2-3 weeks before the last spring frost or in mid-summer for a fall harvest.
2. **Soil Preparation:** Prepare the soil as described above.
3. **Planting Depth:** Sow seeds 1/4-1/2 inch deep.
4. **Spacing:** Space seeds 3-6 inches apart.
5. **Thinning:** Once the seedlings have a few true leaves, thin them to 18-24 inches apart.
**Ongoing Care:**
1. **Watering:** Water regularly, especially during dry periods.
2. **Fertilizing:** Fertilize every 2-3 weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
3. **Weed Control:** Keep the area around the plants weed-free.
4. **Blanching:** When the heads start to form, blanch them by tying the outer leaves over the head to protect it from sunlight and keep it white.
5. **Pest and Disease Control:** Monitor for pests and diseases and take appropriate action if necessary.
**Harvesting:**
1. **Timing:** Harvest cauliflower when the heads are firm, compact, and white.
2. **Cutting:** Cut the head from the plant, leaving a few leaves attached.
3. **Storage:** Store cauliflower in the refrigerator for up to a week.
**Tips for Success:**
* Choose varieties that are well-suited to your climate.
* Provide consistent moisture and fertility.
* Protect plants from extreme temperatures.
* Monitor for pests and diseases.
By following these steps, you can successfully grow cauliflower from seed and enjoy the fruits of your labor.
