Growing Broccoli and Cauliflower
Broccoli and cauliflower are cool-season crops that can be extremely rewarding when planted at the right time.
The challenge is avoiding Alabama heat.
Fall Is Often Best
Broccoli and cauliflower generally perform best when they mature during cool weather.
In Central Alabama, fall planting commonly begins in late July or early August, depending on crop and variety.
Transplants are often easiest.
Spring Crops
Cauliflower and cabbage-family transplants can also be set out very early in the year.
Spring success depends on getting plants mature before temperatures rise sharply.
Sun and Soil
Provide:
- Full sun
- Fertile soil
- Good drainage
- Consistent moisture
These crops are relatively heavy feeders.
Use compost and soil-test recommendations.
Spacing
Give plants room.
Broccoli and cauliflower leaves become large, and crowding reduces airflow.
Watering
Consistent moisture is important for steady growth.
Stress can produce small heads or poor quality.
Broccoli Harvest
Harvest the main head while buds are still tight.
After cutting the main head, many broccoli varieties produce smaller side shoots.
Keep harvesting them.
Cauliflower Harvest
Harvest when the head is firm and compact.
Some white cauliflower varieties benefit from having outer leaves loosely tied over the developing head to protect it from sun, though self-blanching varieties may need little help.
Common Pests
Watch for:
- Imported cabbageworms
- Cabbage loopers
- Aphids
- Flea beetles
- Harlequin bugs
Check leaf undersides often.
Row Cover
Floating row cover can protect young plants from insect pests.
Remove or manage it as plants grow and temperatures change.
Heat Problems
Hot weather can lead to:
- Loose heads
- Buttoning
- Bolting
- Bitter or poor-quality growth
Timing is everything.
GardenGrowz Tip
If spring broccoli has disappointed you, try a fall crop. Alabama’s cooling autumn weather is often much easier to work with.
