Cauliflower Seeds - Snowball Y Improved - Brassica oleracea

3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11

USDA Zones 3-11 - Grows as a cool-season annual in all zones. Cauliflower is very sensitive to heat, which can cause the heads to be small, bitter, or "button."

Best performance in Zones 3-9, where it can be grown in the spring and fall.

Northern Zones (3-5) - Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date for a spring harvest. Plant outdoors 2-4 weeks before the last frost. For a fall crop, direct sow seeds in mid-to-late summer.

Hot Climate Zones (9-11) - Best grown in late fall, winter, and early spring. Avoid planting during the summer as high temperatures will cause the plants to bolt before forming a head.

Soil Temperature - Requires a cool soil for germination, with an optimal temperature range of 55-75F. Consistent moisture is critical.

Growing Season - Requires 60-75 days from transplant to maturity, making it a suitable crop for spring and fall gardens.

Learn more about USDA Hardiness Zones here

When to Plant:
Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before your last expected frost date for a spring harvest. This is the most reliable method, as cauliflower dislikes root disturbance and is sensitive to temperature changes. For a fall crop, start seeds indoors in mid-summer or direct sow them.

Location and Soil:
Choose a location that receives full sun (at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day). In very hot climates, partial afternoon shade can prevent bolting. Cauliflower is a heavy feeder and requires rich, well-draining soil with a good amount of organic matter. A soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0 is ideal.

Starting Seeds Indoors (Recommended):

Fill seed starting trays or pots with a high-quality seed starting mix.

Sow seeds 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep.

Water to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.

Once seedlings have their first true leaves, thin to one plant per cell.

Harden off seedlings for about a week before transplanting.

Transplanting Outdoors:

Transplant seedlings into the garden when they are 4-6 weeks old.

Space plants 18-24 inches apart in rows 2-3 feet apart.

Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball, plant it, and backfill with soil.

Water thoroughly after transplanting.

Care and Maintenance:

Watering: Provide consistent and even moisture throughout the growing season. Inconsistent watering can lead to stunted heads or a bitter taste.

Fertilizing: Amend the soil with plenty of compost before planting. A balanced, all-purpose fertilizer can be applied once a month to support the plant's heavy feeding needs.

Blanching: 'Snowball Y Improved' is a self-blanching variety. The inner leaves naturally curl over the head to protect it from the sun. If they don't, you can tie the outer leaves together over the head to keep it white.

Harvesting: Harvest the head when it is firm, dense, and has reached its full size (about 6-8 inches in diameter). Cut the stalk just below the head with a sharp knife.

Pests and Diseases: Watch for common brassica pests like cabbage worms and aphids. Consider using row covers to protect young plants.