Seed Cauliflower

Growing Cauliflower Snowball from seeds is a fantastic way to enjoy fresh, chemical-free produce from your own terrace or balcony garden! This variety produces compact, white curds and thrives in Indian winters. Here’s your complete, easy-to-follow guide:

🗓️ Best Time to Sow

• North India: September to December

• South India: October to January (cooler regions)

• Ideal Temp: 15°C – 25°C

🪴 Container Requirements

• Depth: Minimum 12–15 inches deep

• Width: 12–15 inches or more per plant

• Must have good drainage

Soil Mix

Cauliflower loves nutrient-rich, well-drained, loose soil.

• 40% garden soil

• 30% compost/vermicompost

• 20% cocopeat or sand (for aeration)

• 10% neem cake or organic fertilizer

Sowing the Seeds

• Start in a seed tray or directly in containers

• Sow depth: ¼ to ½ inch deep

• Spacing: 12–15 inches between plants

• Cover lightly with soil and mist gently

• Germination: 5–10 days

• Transplanting (if tray sown): After 4–5 true leaves emerge (~2–3 weeks)

Sunlight

• Needs 5–6 hours of full sunlight daily

• Place containers in a bright, open area

Watering

• Keep soil moist but not soggy

• Water regularly, especially during head formation

• Avoid overhead watering once heads form to prevent rot

Fertilizer

• Heavy feeder – apply compost or organic fertilizer every 15–20 days

• Use bone meal or potash during head development

• Liquid seaweed is great as a foliar spray

🐛 Pest & Disease Control

• Watch for aphids, cabbage worms, and fungal diseases

• Spray neem oil + soap solution every 10–15 days

• Use netting to protect young plants

Harvesting

• Ready in 70–90 days after transplanting

• Harvest when curds are tight, white, and fully formed (~6–8 inches)

• Don’t delay harvesting—curds may loosen or yellow