PLANTING INSTRUCTIONS

Metropole cauliflower is a popular and versatile vegetable known for its large, creamy-white heads and mild flavor. This cool-season crop thrives in moderate climates and can be a bit challenging to grow, but with the right care and attention, you can achieve excellent results. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, this guide will help you cultivate healthy, productive Metropole cauliflower plants.

• Best Time to Plant:

  Cauliflower prefers cooler temperatures and should be planted in early spring or late summer for a fall harvest. Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date for spring planting. Transplant seedlings outdoors 2-4 weeks before the last frost. For a fall harvest, start seeds indoors or directly in the garden 6-8 weeks before the first expected frost.

• Soil Type:

  Cauliflower thrives in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Enrich the soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting to provide essential nutrients. Cauliflower also benefits from a soil that retains moisture but does not become waterlogged.

• Spacing:

  Proper spacing is crucial for cauliflower plants to develop large, healthy heads. Sow seeds or transplant seedlings 18-24 inches (45-60 cm) apart in rows that are 24-36 inches (60-90 cm) apart. Ensure there is enough room for the plants to grow without overcrowding, which can lead to poor air circulation and increased disease risk.

CARE TIPS

• Watering:

  Consistent moisture is essential for growing cauliflower. Water the plants deeply and regularly, aiming for about 1-1.5 inches (2.5-4 cm) of water per week. Mulching around the plants helps retain soil moisture and keeps the roots cool. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of disease.

• Fertilizing:

  Cauliflower is a heavy feeder and benefits from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, at planting time and then every 3-4 weeks throughout the growing season. Alternatively, side-dress with compost or organic fertilizers to provide a steady nutrient supply.

• Pruning:

  Pruning is not typically necessary for cauliflower, but you should remove any yellowing or damaged leaves to improve air circulation and reduce the risk of disease. Additionally, when the heads start to form, blanching them by covering with leaves or using a cloth can help maintain their white color.

HARVESTING

• When to Harvest:

  Metropole cauliflower is usually ready to harvest 60-85 days after planting, depending on the variety and growing conditions. Harvest the heads when they are firm, compact, and have reached a size of 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) in diameter. The heads should be creamy-white and tight.

• How to Harvest:

  Use a sharp knife to cut the head from the plant, leaving about 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) of the stem attached. It’s best to harvest in the morning when the plants are still cool. After harvesting the main head, remove the plant from the garden to prevent pests and diseases from taking hold.

TROUBLESHOOTING

• Common Issues:

  •Aphids: Small, soft-bodied insects that cluster on the undersides of leaves, sucking plant juices and causing stunted growth.

  •Cabbage Worms: Green caterpillars that chew holes in leaves and can damage developing heads.

  •Clubroot: A soil-borne disease causing swollen roots and stunted growth.

• Solutions:

  •Aphids: Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphid populations. Encourage beneficial insects, such as ladybugs, which prey on aphids.

  •Cabbage Worms: Inspect plants regularly and handpick worms. Use floating row covers to protect young plants, and apply Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) if infestations are severe.

  •Clubroot: Ensure proper soil pH by liming if necessary. Practice crop rotation and avoid planting brassicas in the same spot for several years. Remove and destroy affected plants.