How long until cauliflower is ready to harvest?

55-80 days. Compact, firm head 6-8 inches across; harvest before curds start to separate or discolor

When to Plant Cauliflower

Brassica oleracea var. botrytis

vegetableZones 3–10advanced

Elegant cool-season crop producing compact white, purple, or orange heads. More finicky than broccoli but rewarding when conditions are right.

Planting calendar

Start seeds indoors

6 weeks before your last spring frost.

Fall planting

10 weeks before your first fall frost.

Blanch heads by tying outer leaves over them when head is 2-3 inches across

Spacing & harvest

Plant spacing: 18-24 inches
Row spacing: 24-36 inches
Days to harvest: 55-80 days
Ready when: Compact, firm head 6-8 inches across; harvest before curds start to separate or discolor

Companion planting

Plant near

Celery — Repels cabbage white butterflies
Onion — Deters pests with strong scent
Dill — Attracts beneficial wasps

Keep away from

Strawberry — Inhibits brassica growth

Get cauliflower planting dates for your exact zone

Lawn Guardian turns this guidance into a schedule timed to your USDA zone and this week's actual weather — and adapts every time you log what you've done.

Get your free plan

Sources: Purdue University Turfgrass Science: Use Growing Degree Days to Better Time Your Applications · University of Missouri Extension: Cool-Season Grasses: Lawn Maintenance Calendar · University of Minnesota Extension: Pre-emergent Herbicides for Crabgrass Control in Lawns