Table of Contents
Introduction
Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis) is a widely grown, cool-season vegetable known for its compact white head, commonly called the “curd.” Valued in Indian and global cuisines alike, cauliflower is used in a variety of dishes such as curries, stir-fries, soups, and pickles, thanks to its mild flavor and versatility. Rich in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, it offers numerous health benefits, including improved digestion, heart health, and support for weight management.
From a farming perspective, cauliflower is a profitable crop with strong market demand, especially during the winter months. Its relatively short growing season makes it an attractive choice for both small- and large-scale farmers. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the essential 7 steps to successfully grow healthy cauliflower from seed to harvest.
Step 1: Climate, Soil, and Season for Sowing Cauliflower Seeds
Climate for Cauliflower Cultivation
Cauliflower is highly sensitive to climate. The crop responds significantly to temperature and photoperiod, with specific temperature requirements depending on the variety. Generally, the optimum temperature for healthy curd formation lies between 15°C to 20°C, with maximum temperatures around 25°C and minimums around 8°C.
Early-maturing varieties grow well in slightly warmer conditions with shorter days, while late varieties prefer cooler weather. If early types are exposed to colder temperatures, they may develop loose, leafy, or discolored curds. Similarly, late varieties grown in cooler-than-required climates may produce undersized heads or bolt prematurely. In hot and dry conditions, the curd may become small and hard. For best results, sow the variety at the right time to align with its climatic needs.
Soil for Cauliflower Cultivation
Cauliflower grows best in well-drained, fertile loamy soils that are rich in organic matter. It can thrive in sandy loam, silt loam, or clay loam soils, provided they have good drainage. The crop is sensitive to acidic conditions, so maintaining a soil pH between 5.5 and 6.6 is essential.
Season for Cauliflower Cultivation
Cauliflower seeds should be sown according to their variety and seasonal temperature requirements. Generally, early varieties are sown from May to June, while some other early-maturing types are sown in the first fortnight of July. Mid-early varieties are best sown between July and August, and mid-late varieties are planted in September. Late-season snowball types are generally sown in October.
Step 2: Selecting the Right Cauliflower Variety
Various factors such as variety type, maturity time, length of the growing season, climate, photoperiod, and season of sowing need to be considered while selecting a cauliflower variety. For your convenience, a few cauliflower varieties are listed below.
Step 3: Procuring Quality Cauliflower Seeds
For successful cauliflower farming, selecting high-quality seeds is essential. Even with the best cultivation practices, poor-quality seeds can result in low yields and weak plant health.
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Step 4: Land Preparation for Sowing Cauliflower Seeds
The soil needs to be prepared to a fine tilth. Plough the land 1 to 2 times with a single plough, followed by 3 to 4 times with a disc plough. Apply 25 to 30 tonnes per hectare of farmyard manure during the final ploughing.
Step 5: Sowing Cauliflower Seeds
Cauliflower seeds are generally first sown in a nursery before being transplanted to the main field. The nursery bed should be raised, well-drained, and enriched with compost or farmyard manure (FYM). An area of 100 sq. m of nursery bed is sufficient for one hectare of land. For each square meter of nursery area, apply around 5 kg of well-rotted FYM. Sow the seeds in rows spaced 10 cm apart on raised seed beds, at a depth of 0.5 cm. The seedlings can be transplanted after 25 days for early varieties and 45 days for later varieties.
If the seedlings are raised in a nursery in the field, it is better to transplant them within one hour after uprooting. Transplanting is usually done in the evening. Ridges and furrows or pits can be prepared for transplanting. Gap filling can be done around 20 days after transplanting the cauliflower seedlings.
Early cauliflower seedlings are generally planted with a spacing of 45 cm × 30 cm, while mid-season and late varieties require wider spacing, usually 60 × 40 cm and 60 × 45 cm, respectively.
Step 6: Care After Sowing Cauliflower Seeds
Water Management:
Proper irrigation is essential for the healthy growth of cauliflower plants. The first irrigation should be given immediately after transplanting.
In plains, watering can be done once a week to maintain consistent soil moisture. In hilly areas, irrigation can be done weekly, especially during January and February, when the climate is cooler and drier. Check the soil moisture and water the plants as needed. Avoid overwatering, as it can cause waterlogging and negatively affect curd formation.
Weed Management:
Two manual weddings can be done at 35 and 45 days after transplanting cauliflower seedlings. Additional weddings can be done later, depending on weed intensity.
Step 7: Harvesting Cauliflower
Cauliflower should be harvested as soon as the curd reaches its full size and is compact, white, and firm. If there is any doubt about maturity, it is better to harvest a little early rather than too late, as over-mature curds may become loose, leafy, or discoloured, which reduces their market value and shelf life.
Use a sharp knife to cut the curd along with a few protective leaves (jacket leaves) to keep it safe during handling.
Common FAQs Related to Cauliflower Seed Sowing
Q. What climate is best for growing cauliflower?
A. Cauliflower grows best in a cool and moist climate. The ideal temperature range for curd development is between 15°C and 20°C.
Q. Which soil is best for growing cauliflower?
A. Cauliflower prefers well-drained, fertile loamy soil rich in organic matter. Sandy loam, silt loam, or clay loam soils with good drainage and a pH between 5.5 and 6.6 are suitable.
Q. When can cauliflower be harvested?
A. Cauliflower can be harvested when the curd is fully developed, compact, white, and firm.
Q. How deep can cauliflower be sown?
A. Cauliflower seeds should be sown at a depth of about 0.5 cm in nursery beds.
Q. What is the scientific name of cauliflower?
A. The scientific name of cauliflower is Brassica oleracea var. botrytis.
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