Rulfs Orchard Logo for Website Peru Bakery Apple Orchard Farmers Market Store
Since 1952
Rulfs Orchard Logo for Website Peru Bakery Apple Orchard Farmers Market Store
Since 1952

Veggie Bootcamp ➡ Cauliflower

Our new greenhouse, the Veggie House is open! In there you can find all of our veggie starters and herbs!

Next up is Cauliflower. This veggie loves the sun, but is a cool season crop that can be grown in spring and fall. It is best to start cauliflower from small starters rather than seed - so make sure to stop by the Rulfs Veggie House when you visit our Farmers Market, if you are interested in growing cauliflower this season!

The soil needs to be rich in organic matter, so add aged manure and/or compost into the bed where you plan to plant (like Rulfs Garden Mix). Plan to plant your starters with the last spring frost date in mind, around 2-4 weeks before it, if you can. No sooner, and not much later. Plants should have 18-24 inches between them, and 30 inches between rows. Mulching around the plants will help to conserve moisture. Water regularly.

Harvesting Your Cauliflower

Cauliflower heads begin loose, and it takes time for them to fully form - be patient! When the head is compact, white and firm, then it's time to harvest. The cauliflower head should ideally be about 6-8 inches across.

Take a large knife and cut the heads off, careful to retain some of the leaves around the head for protection. Note: if your cauliflower heads seem small but have already started to open, there is no remedying this and you should harvest now. Be alert for heads that have a course appearance, as they are past maturity and should be thrown away.

Storing Your Cauliflower

Cauliflower can be stored in the refrigerator in a plastic bag. Stored in this way they should last about a week. Freezing and pickling are options if you want to store for longer!

Looking for cauliflower recipes? Check these out:


Share your own recipes and tips on our Facebook and spread the homegrown veggie love!

*We ask that all visitors please follow social distancing guidelines of leaving 6 feet between you and others, and, where possible, wearing masks to reduce the risk to yours and other households. Thank you in advance!

If you would rather order your veggies and herbs online, we will soon be offering them through our webstore on 48 hour pick-up.

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