Growing Cauliflower: Blanching for White Heads & Stress-Free Success

Cauliflower (cabbage family) is stress-sensitive. Proper care yields beautiful heads—especially under melted cheddar!

Critical Steps

• Soil pH: 6.5–7.5. Full sun preferred.
• Spacing: 15"+ for root spread.
• Water: Consistent moisture—moist, not soggy. Use a moisture gauge.
• Blanching: When head is 2–3", fold leaves over it. Limits sun → whiter, more flavorful curd.
• Harvest: Check daily after blanching. Ready in 7–10 days.
• Companions: Beets, carrots, celery, onions, potatoes = good. Pole beans, strawberries = bad.

A few unique steps (blanching, pH precision) prevent stress and deliver premium cauliflower.