Reasons You’ll LOVE Fresh Cauliflower

So delicious and nutritious!

Cauliflower Quick Growing Tips

How to Grow Cauliflower

Cauliflower needs a lot of room, but is quite easy to grow! 

Cauliflower Pests and Bugs 

Cauliflower can be susceptible to certain pests and bugs.

• • Cabbage Worms – Cabbage worms are green caterpillars that feed on the leaves of cauliflower plants, causing damage. To control cabbage worms, you can manually pick them off the plants or use organic insecticides like Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), which specifically targets caterpillars.
  • Aphids – Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can cluster on the undersides of cauliflower leaves, sucking sap from the plants. Regularly inspect your plants for aphids and remove them by hand or use insecticidal soap or neem oil sprays to control their population.
  • Flea Beetles – Flea beetles are small black or brown beetles that chew small holes in cauliflower leaves. To manage flea beetles, you can use floating row covers to physically block them from reaching the plants. Neem oil or insecticidal soaps can also be used as organic control methods.
  • Cabbage Loopers – Cabbage loopers are green caterpillars that eat cauliflower leaves and can cause significant damage. Handpicking them off the plants or using organic insecticides can help control their population.
  • Slugs and Snails – Slugs and snails are nocturnal pests that feed on cauliflower leaves, leaving behind large irregular holes. You can physically remove them from the garden by handpicking, setting up traps like beer traps, or creating barriers using copper tape or diatomaceous earth around the plants.
  • Root Maggots – Root maggots are larvae that feed on the roots of cauliflower plants, causing stunted growth and wilting. To prevent root maggot infestations, you can use row covers to physically block the adult flies from laying eggs near the plants. Crop rotation and maintaining healthy soil can also help reduce the risk of infestation.

Regular monitoring of your cauliflower plants and practicing good garden hygiene help keep these cauliflower pests at bay.

How to Prepare Cauliflower

Preparing cauliflower is quite easy.

• • Cauliflower Florets – Start by removing the leaves and trimming the stem of the cauliflower head. Cut it into florets of your desired size. Rinse the florets under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. You can then use the florets in a variety of dishes such as stir-fries, curries, roasted vegetables, or steamed cauliflower.
  • Cauliflower Rice – Cut the cauliflower into florets and pulse them in a food processor until they reach a rice-like consistency. You can use a grater or a knife to achieve a similar result if you don’t have a food processor. Once you have cauliflower rice, you can use it as a low-carb alternative to rice in dishes like fried rice, and stir-fries, or as a base for grain-free bowls.
  • Quick Pickled Cauliflower –  Quick pickled cauliflower is a fantastic way to prepare and eat your fresh cauliflower.
  • Roasted Cauliflower – Preheat your oven to around 425°F (220°C). Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any desired spices or seasonings such as garlic powder, paprika, or cumin. Spread the seasoned florets in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for about 20-30 minutes or until they turn golden brown and become tender. Roasted cauliflower can be served as a flavorful side dish or added to salads or grain bowls.
  • Mashed Cauliflower – Boil cauliflower florets in salted water until they are tender. Drain well and transfer them to a food processor or use a potato masher to mash the cauliflower until it reaches your desired consistency. Add butter, garlic, herbs, or spices to enhance the flavor. Mashed cauliflower can be served as a lower-carb alternative to mashed potatoes.
  • Cauliflower Steaks – Slice the cauliflower head into thick “steaks” by cutting across the head, creating large, flat slices. Brush the steaks with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs or spices. Grill or pan-sear the cauliflower steaks until they are golden brown and tender. This method results in a hearty, flavorful cauliflower dish that can be served as a main course or a substantial side dish.

Serving Suggestions for Cauliflower

Simple to prepare and wonderfully delicious!

• • Quick Pickled Cauliflower – Quick pickled cauliflower is tangy, crunchy, and delicious. You can have a gorgeous jar of pickled cauliflower ready within ten minutes!
  • Roasted Cauliflower – I make roasted cauliflower a couple of times a week. Crispy and flavorful, roasted cauliflower is easy to make and versatile! 
  • On a salad – I often rough chop my collar greens and add them to a simple garden salad. They pair well with cornbread, rice, or mashed potatoes