Cauliflower
-Planting: This vegetable grows best during periods of cool temperatures,
and you'll have better luck in most areas if it is planted during
midsummer for early fall ripening. Start the seeds indoors or in their own
special planting bed outdoors 6-8 weeks before planting time. Move the
seedlings to the planting area after they are several inches in height.
Space plants 20 inches apart in rows 25-30 inches apart. Cutworm damage
can be prevented by wrapping the stems in stiff paper. Tender plants
should be shaded from direct sunlight the first few days after
transplanting.
-Growing: Cauliflower needs ample moisture, and plenty of rich organic
matter. A thick mulch will help keep in moisture, while a side dressing of
fertilizer every two weeks will ensure growth. Sunlight striking the bud
will cause discoloring, so the leaves should be gathered together and tied
to form a protective canopy once the flower heads are about the size of a
half dollar. Cauliflower should be sprayed weekly with Bacillus
thuringiensis to prevent cabbageworms.
-Harvesting: Cut the stalks with a sharp knife just below the heads 3-8
days after they have been tied.
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