Description

Item Details

Puakea is a white variety slightly smaller than normal cauliflower with heads ranging from 3-4 inches in diameter.

History of the Plant

Cauliflower was originally grown in Asia around the Mediterranean Sea. Cauliflower has been grown and eaten across Europe since the 1500s but did not start growing in the United States until the 1900s. Today, California produces more cauliflower than any other state.

Growing Media

SOIL: It requires a cool moist climate. The early varieties may tolerate higher temperatures and long days. This can be grown in plains during September to February. Deep loamy soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.6 with higher organic matter content and good drainage are suited for cauliflower cultivation

PLANTING: The fastest way to grow cauliflower is to start with young plants, such as the strong, vigorous ones from Bonnie Plants®. That way, you’ll already be well on your way to harvest time! If you prefer to grow from seed and are starting your cauliflower seeds indoors

HYDROPONICS: Will grow well in hydroponic systems that provide a good deal of support, such as an ebb and flow system, with sturdy media such as clay pellets or gravel.

Care

WATER: Requires moderate levels of water: approximately 1″ per week. Keep soil evenly moist but not saggy. This is particularly important in the early stages of growth as overwatering the seeds can cause damage and decrease your germination rates.

HEAT: When the curd (the white head) is 2 to 3 inches in diameter, blanch it: Tie the outer leaves together over the head and secure it with a rubber band, tape, or twine to keep light out. (This is not necessary for self-blanching or colored varieties). The plants are usually ready for harvest 7 to 12 days after blanching.

HARVESTING: Although not required, a light application of compost tea every 3-4 weeks can help your plants and the surrounding soil stay happy and healthy.

PRUNING: Plants are usually ready to harvest in about 50 to 100 days, depending on variety, or 7 to 12 days after blanching. When the heads are compact, white, and firm, then it is time to harvest them. Ideally, the heads will grow to 6 to 8 inches in diameter. Cut the heads off the plant with a large knife. Be sure to leave some of the leaves around the head to keep it protected.

MULCHING: Apply a light layer of straw, reusable black landscape fabric, or wood chips around your bean plants to keep moisture and heat in your soil and suppress weed populations.

Nutrients

NUTRITIONAL: The nutrition profile of cauliflower is quite impressive. Cauliflower is very low in calories yet high in vitamins. In fact, cauliflower contains almost every vitamin and mineral that you need (1Trusted Source}. Here is an overview of the nutrients found in 1 cup, or 128 grams, of raw cauliflower.

MEDICINAL: Cauliflower is quite high in fiber, which is beneficial for overall health. There are 3 grams of fiber in one cup of cauliflower, which is 10% of your daily needs (1Trusted Source). Fiber is important because it feeds the healthy bacteria in your gut that help reduce inflammation and promote digestive health.