Self Blanching Cauliflower seeds
Self Blanching Cauliflower produces large leaves that make balancing a breeze. The heads of this variety are compact, producing large flavorful curds of cauliflower. Self Blanching cauliflower is ideal for pickling or freezing and works great in the air fryer. The bright white florets can be enjoyed raw or cooked. These can be grown in containers with a minimum depth of 8" and a minimum width of 18".
Seed count: 50
Botanic name:
Brassica oleracea
Plant spacing:
18-24 inches (36" for rows)
Color:
Bright green foliage with bright white heads
Sowing depth:
1/4 inch deep
Sun requirements:
Full sun
Utilization:
Delicious prepared in virtually every way! Baked, steamed, grilled, fried, sauteed, blanched, or enjoyed raw.
Frost hardy:
Yes
Maturity days:
65-70 days
Life cycle:
Annual
Start indoors:
Yes
Container friendly:
Yes
Other names:
Self Blanche 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.
