Скачать или смотреть Grow cauliflower in a pot: easy steps by step guide

Growing cauliflower in a pot is definitely achievable with the right conditions and care! Here's a guide to help you:
1. Choosing the Right Pot:
Size: Select a pot that is at least 12 inches (30 cm) in diameter and 12 inches (30 cm) deep. A larger pot, around 5-10 gallons or 16-18 inches in diameter, is even better as it provides more space for root growth and helps retain moisture.
Drainage: Ensure the pot has at least one good drainage hole to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
2. Soil:
Cauliflower needs nutrient-rich, well-draining soil that also retains some moisture.
Use a high-quality commercial potting mix. You can enrich it further by mixing in compost or well-rotted manure at planting time.
3. Starting Your Cauliflower:
From Seed: You can start seeds indoors about 4-6 weeks before your last expected frost. Sow seeds about ½ inch deep in seed-starting mix. Maintain a soil temperature of around 70°F (21°C) for germination. Once seedlings have a few true leaves, you can transplant them into your pot.
From Seedlings: The easiest way is often to purchase seedlings from a garden center. Plant them about a month before the last average frost for a spring harvest or about 6 weeks before the first average frost for a fall harvest.
4. Planting:
Gently remove the seedling from its container.
Dig a hole in the center of your pot that is large enough to accommodate the root ball.
Place the seedling in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.
Fill in with soil and gently firm it down.
Water thoroughly after planting.
5. Location and Sunlight:
Cauliflower needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Choose a sunny but sheltered spot for your pot. Potted plants can be more susceptible to heat stress, so some afternoon shade might be beneficial in very hot climates.
6. Watering:
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Avoid getting water on the foliage, as this can encourage diseases. Water at the base of the plant.
In hot weather, you may need to water daily.
7. Fertilizing:
Cauliflower is a heavy feeder.
Mix compost or well-rotted manure into the soil at planting.
Feed monthly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer or a seaweed fertilizer. You can also use a slow-release fertilizer at planting.
8. Blanching (for white varieties):
When the cauliflower head (curd) is about 2-3 inches in diameter, you may need to blanch it to keep it white. This involves blocking sunlight from the developing head.
Gently fold the larger leaves over the curd and secure them loosely with twine or a rubber band.
Check the head regularly. Blanching typically takes 7-12 days.
9. Harvesting:
Harvest when the head is fully developed, firm, compact, and the desired size (usually 6-12 inches in diameter, depending on the variety).
Cut the main stem below the head with a sharp knife.
Common Problems to Watch Out For:
Buttoning: Premature formation of small heads due to stress (cold temperatures, lack of water or nutrients).
Bolting: Premature flowering due to temperature fluctuations or planting at the wrong time.
Leafy Curds: Leaves growing through the head, often caused by temperature spikes or late harvesting.
Pests: Cabbage worms, aphids, flea beetles can attack cauliflower. Monitor your plants and take appropriate action (handpicking, insecticidal soap, row covers).
Diseases: Clubroot, downy mildew, and other fungal diseases can occur. Ensure good drainage and air circulation.
Growing cauliflower in a pot requires consistent attention to watering and feeding, but it's a rewarding experience to harvest your own fresh cauliflower!