How to Grow Cauliflower

Start Cauliflower seeds indoors 6 weeks before your last frost date, then transplant outdoors 0 weeks after the last frost. Use the search on this page to find exact dates for your ZIP code or city.

Cauliflower typically matures in about 75 days from planting. Exact timing varies by variety, soil conditions, and local climate.

Cauliflower should be started indoors 6 weeks before the last frost date. This gives seedlings time to establish before being transplanted outside after frost danger has passed.

Cauliflower requires full sun (6 hours) to thrive.

Space Cauliflower plants 18 inches apart to allow adequate airflow and root development.

Cauliflower has regular (1-1.5 inches/week) water needs. Consistent moisture is important especially during germination and early growth.

Yes — seed saving difficulty for Cauliflower is rated difficult. Allow head to bloom fully after the eating stage. Harvest seed pods when dry and tan. Thresh dried seed stalks, winnow seeds from chaff.

Properly dried and stored Cauliflower seeds remain viable for up to 5 years. Store in a cool, dark, dry location in an airtight container with a silica gel packet for best results.

Yes — Cauliflower is open-pollinated, meaning seeds saved from your harvest will grow plants true to the parent variety. This makes it an excellent candidate for building a self-sustaining garden.