Cauliflower: Snowball Y Improved (Heirloom) (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis)
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General Information
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Soil Preparation & Start Indoors
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Transplant Outdoors & Start Outdoors
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Crop Care
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Harvesting & Storage
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Seed Saving
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Culinary
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Companion Planting
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Nutrition & Health Benefits
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Other Uses
Also Known As: Snowball Improved
Grown as: Cauliflower is a biennial plant but it is grown as an annual. For seed production it is biennial.
Maturity: 65 days
Hardiness: Half Hardy, Cauliflower is somewhat hardy and thrives in mild, moist weather. It is an ideal fall crop in most climates.
Crops: Spring Transplant, Spring
Growing Season: Long
Growing Conditions: Cool
Outdoor Growing Temp: 45°F - 75°F
Min Outdoor Soil Temp: 60°F. Seedlings shouldn't go outside until the soil is at least 60°F.
Start Indoors: Yes
Start Outdoors: Yes
Light: Sun: min. 6 hours daily (Cool) Cauliflower grows in the cooler part of the year so needs full sun.
Water: Medium. Cauliflower absolutely must have constant moisture for good growth.
Feeder: Heavy. Like most Brassicas cauliflower is a fairly hungry crop and must have plenty of available nutrients for good growth.
Suitability: Tolerates light frost, Needs summer shade, Needs lots of space
Small Gardens?: No
Containers?: Yes. For one cauliflower plant, you'll need a pot that is at least 8" deep and 20" wide. Fill with a mixture of potting soil and compost and keep the soil moist but not overly wet. If you are using a larger container, be sure to space your cauliflower plants at least 18 to 24" apart. Although cauliflower is a cool weather plant, it loves sunshine so be sure to place the container in an area with access to at least 3 hours of full sun a day.
Attracts beneficial insects?: No
Forage: Rabbits. Safe in Moderation!
Maintenance: Medium
Height: 12-18"
Sowing Depth: 1/2"
Spacing: 18-24"
Produces: Curds reach 6-7" in diameter.
USDA Hardiness Zone: 2-11
Garden Uses: Vegetable gardens.
Soil Preparation
Soil pH: 6.0-7.0, Ideal 6.5-6.8. Cauliflower must have rapid and uninterrupted growth if it is to perform well. It isn't particular as to what type of soil it grows in, so long as the soil is fertile and moisture retentive with lots of organic matter. It is sensitive to a deficiency of micronutrients, especially molybdenum and boron. It doesn't like salt.
Soil Preparation
Compost (Nitrogen), 2", in top 6" of soil, 1 time: Prepare the soil by digging deeply and incorporating 2˝ of compost or aged manure. Alternatively, you could add fresh manure the previous fall. It does well if planted 2 weeks after incorporating a winter cover crop.
Standard Mix, 5 pounds per 100 sq. ft., before sowing, 1 time: Standard Mix will supply additional nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and trace elements. Incorporate it into the top 6" of soil along with the compost. This is a mix of various amendments intended to supply all of the nutrients plants may require. It is usually incorporated into the soil prior to planting. The mix consists of:
- 4 parts cottonseed meal (this is high in nitrogen and relatively inexpensive)
- 2 parts colloidal phosphate or bone meal (for phosphorus)
- 2 parts wood ash or 3 parts greensand or granite dust (for potassium)
- 1 part dolomitic limestone (to balance pH and add calcium and magnesium)
- 1 part kelp meal (for trace elements)
Mix these together thoroughly. You can do this all at once, or you can store them separately and mix as needed.
Lime (Calcium), 0.5 pounds per 100 sq. ft., before sowing, 1 time: Cauliflower is one of the crops that is most susceptible to boron deficiency (which can be caused by acid soil). If your soil is too acidic then add lime as necessary (preferably dolomitic lime, as this supplies useful magnesium as well as calcium).
Start Indoors
Soil temp for germination: 45°F to 85°F, optimal 55°F to 85°F, optimal 77°F
Total weeks to grow transplant: 9 to 12 (Spring/Summer), 11 to 12 (Fall/Winter)
Germinate: 6 weeks before last frost date.
Harden off: on last frost date. Allow your Cauliflower to adapt to it's new outdoor temperatures. Transplanting will shock your plant, but transplanting WHILE moving it from indoors to out gives you a much higher chance of killing the seedling.
Transplant Outdoors
Cool: Cauliflower prefers nearly neutral soils rich in organic matter. Water moderately and evenly. Cauliflower can be sensitive to boron deficiencies. Lime the soil to a pH of 7.0 or higher in areas with clubroot problems.To ensure plump heads, time indoor sowing so that plants are no more than 5 weeks old at transplant time. Sow outdoors when soil temperatures are at least 60 degrees F. While cauliflower requires growing conditions similar to broccoli and cabbage, it can be more difficult to grow. Any interruption in growth due to under-watering or under-fertilization can cause the plant to prematurely set a small, unusable head. Cauliflower needs quite a lot of space, which rules it out of many small gardens. It grows in the coolest parts of the year, so also needs full sun.
When outdoor temp: 45°F to 75°F, optimal temp 60°F to 65°F
When min soil temp: 60°F. Seedlings shouldn't go outside until the soil is at least 60°F.
Spacing: 18-24", (1 per 2'x2') plants per sq ft. pacing has an effect upon the final size of the head. 15" in very good soil, 18" in average soil, and 24" in poor soil. We recommend the square foot gardening method which requires 24" per plant.
Start Outdoors
When outdoor temp: 45°F to 75°F, optimal temp 60°F to 65°F
When min soil temp: 60°F. Seedlings shouldn't go outside until the soil is at least 60°F.
Seed Depth: 0.25"-0.5". Sow the seeds 1/4" to 1/2" deep, with 2 to 3 seeds in each station. Thin for best performance once when the plants are up and growing.
Spacing: 18-24", (1 per 2'x2') plants per sq ft. Spacing has an effect upon the final size of the head. 15" in very good soil, 18" in average soil, and 24" in poor soil. We recommend the square foot gardening method which requires 24" per plant.
Spring Crop: 2-3 weeks before last frost date. Cauliflower can also be direct sown and in some cases these plants have been known to mature faster than transplants. However, this is only practical in climates that provide that ideal long cool growing season. Plant twice as many seeds as you need plants, at a depth of ½˝.Thin to the required spacing when the plants have their first set of true leaves.
Water Needs: High. Cauliflower absolutely must have constant moisture for good growth. Watering, regularly. Water, 0.5 gallon per plant, regularly, 1 time a week. Cauliflower needs constant moisture, so it’s important to keep the soil moist at all times (lack of water can cause bolting). The most critical watering time is when the head is developing; don’t let it get water stressed at this time. Watering also depends on your local weather; don't water if it's raining, or water more frequently if it's dry. Just be sure to keep soil moist for the best crop. The best way to know how much moisture is in your soil is to feel 2" below the soil line. If it's dry, water. Watering, regularly. Water, 1 gallon per plant, regularly, 1 time a week Cauliflower needs constant moisture, so it’s important to keep the soil moist at all times (lack of water can cause bolting). The most critical watering time is when the head is developing; don’t let it get water stressed at this time. Watering also depends on your local weather; don't water if it's raining, or water more frequently if it's dry. Just be sure to keep soil moist for the best crop. The best way to know how much moisture is in your soil is to feel 2" below the soil line. If it's dry, water.
Fertilizer Needs: Heavy. Like most Brassicas cauliflower is a fairly hungry crop and must have plenty of available nutrients for good growth. Once the plants are established and growing well, feed them with a foliar feed of compost tea. Feed them again just before they start to head up. Cauliflower is one of the crops that is most susceptible to boron deficiency (which can be caused by acid soil).
Side Dressing, after planting: Compost tea, 5 gallons per 100 sq. ft., after planting, 1 time. After the plants are established and growing well, feed them with a foliar fertilizer of compost tea.
Side Dressing, at flowering: Compost tea, 5 gallons per 100 sq. ft., at flowering, 1 time. Feed the plants with a foliar fertilizer of compost tea just before they start to head up. Cauliflower is one of the crops that is most susceptible to boron deficiency (which can be caused by acid soil).
Try to plant in a location that enjoys full sun and remember to water moderately. Keep in mind when planting that Purple of Sicily is thought of as hardy, so this plant will survive close to or on freezing temperatures. Ensure your soil has a pH of between 6.5 and 7.0 as Purple of Sicily is a weakly acidic soil - neutral soil loving plant.
Growing Cauliflower from seed: Try to aim for a seed spacing of at least 3.12 inches and sow at a depth of around 0.58 inches. Soil temperature should be kept higher than 24°C / 75°F to ensure good germination.By our calculations, you should look at sowing Purple of Sicily about 14 days before your last frost date.
Transplanting Cauliflower: Ensure that temperatures are mild and all chance of frost has passed before planting out, as Purple of Sicily is a hardy plant.
Harvesting
When and How: Whole Fruit, 1-14 days after maturity
When: The optimal time to harvest Cauliflower is when the head has reached full size (6" to 8˝), but while it’s still tight and firm. They are good later than this though and may be used until the flower clusters turn yellowish (rather than white) and start to separate (they are said to get ricey). In warm weather the plants don’t stay in optimal condition for very long, in which case it’s better to start harvesting a little too early, rather than too late.
How: Cut off the entire head with a knife. If you aren’t going to use it immediately, leave some leaves on to protect it in storage.
Storage
Storage Req: Freezer
Storage Temp: 32°F
Storage Length: 1 days
Cauliflower will stay in good condition for several weeks if stored in the refrigerator.
Storage Req: Refrigerator
Storage Temp: 35-40°F
Storage Length: 1-14 days
cauliflower can be very erratic.
Seed Viability in Years: 5-10 years
Germination Percentage: 75%
Tender, sweet flesh with a delicate and delicious flavor.
Culinary Use:
Cauliflower can be prepared cooked or raw. Cooking includes stir-fry, steamed, sauteed, roasted, or baked. When prepared raw it is mostly used as an accent to salads or for dipping. When cooking, the heads can remain whole or can be divided into smaller sections. Cauliflower is best when served immediately after cooking.
Immature flowering head: raw or cooked. A mild cabbage-like flavor, they make an excellent cooked vegetable and are also very acceptable in salads. By careful selection of cultivars, it is possible to produce flowering heads all year round.
Leaves: cooked. A mild cabbage flavor, they make a good cooked vegetable. Do not over-harvest them, however, since this would adversely affect the production of the flowering head.
Companions: In rich soil, interplant cauliflower within the row with other plants of the cabbage family, such as broccoli and Brussels sprouts. In average soil, plant cauliflower with light feeders like sage and thyme.
Enemies: Many companion gardeners believe that cauliflower inhibits the growth of grapes.
Problems
Cabbageworms
To attract Braconid Wasps to your garden you will need to grow: Fern-leaf Yarrow, Common Yarrow, Dill, Lemon Balm, and Parsley.
Damsel Bugs: Prey on Caterpillars, Mites, Aphids, Potato Beetles, and Cabbage Worms.
To attract Damsel Bugs to your garden you will need to grow: Caraway (Carum carvi), Cosmos “white sensation” (Cosmos bipinnatus), Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), Alfalfa (Medicago sativa), Spearmint (Mentha spicata), Peter Pan Goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea), and Marigold “lemon gem” (Tagetes tenuifolia).
Tachinid Flies: Prey on Cabbageworms, Gypsy Moths, Japanese Beetles, Mexican Bean Beetle, Cutworms, and Squash Bugs.
To attract Tachinid Flies to your garden you will need to grow: carrots, dill, coriander, and buckwheat.
Yellow Jacket Wasps: Although hornets, paper wasps and yellow jackets are often considered a nuisance, they are predators of soft-bodied insects. They do not typically sting humans unless they are disturbed. If their nests are not in an area likely to be disturbed by people then it is not a bad idea to leave them alone.
Cabbage Loopers
To attract Ladybugs to your garden you will need to grow: Angelica, Calendula, Caraway, Chives, Cilantro, Cosmos, Dill, Fennel, Feverfew, Marigold, Statice, Sweet Alyssum, and Yarrow. You may also want to grow decoy crops to keep your ladybugs supplied with aphids to eat such as Early cabbage, Marigold, Nasturtium, and Radish. Without a food source, your ladybugs will be forced to leave which will leave your crops vulnerable.
Minute Pirate Bugs: Preys on spider mites, cabbage looper, insect eggs, caterpillars, aphids, thrips
To attract Minute Pirate Bugs to your garden you will need to grow: Caraway (Carum carvi), Cosmos “white sensation” (Cosmos bipinnatus), Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), Alfalfa (Medicago sativa), Spearmint (Mentha spicata), Peter Pan Goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea), and Marigold “lemon gem” (Tagetes tenuifolia).
Spiders: Prey on a wide range including bed bugs, aphids, roaches, grasshoppers, cabbage looper, and fruit flies.
To attract Spiders to your garden you will need to grow: tall plants for weaving spiders, mulch for predatory spiders.
Flea Beetles
To attract Braconid Wasps to your garden you will need to grow: Fern-leaf Yarrow, Common Yarrow, Dill, Lemon Balm, and Parsley.
Tachinid Flies: Preys on Gypsy Moths, Flea Beetles, Japanese Beetles, Mexican Bean Beetles, Cutworms, and Squash Bugs.
To attract Tachinid Flies to your garden you will need to grow: Carrots, Dill, Coriander, and Buckwheat.
Green Lacewings: Preys on Aphids, Flea beetles, Whitefly, Leafhopper, Mealybugs, and Caterpillars of pest moths.
To attract Green Lacewings to your garden you will need to grow: Dill, Angelica, Golden Marguerite, Coriander, and Dandelion.
Damsel Bugs: Preys on Caterpillars, Mites, Aphids, Flea beetles, Potato beetles, and Cabbage worms.
To attract Damsel Bugs to your garden you will need to grow: Caraway (Carum carvi), Cosmos “white sensation” (Cosmos bipinnatus), Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), Alfalfa (Medicago sativa), Spearmint (Mentha spicata), Peter Pan Goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea), and Marigold “lemon gem” (Tagetes tenuifolia).
Big-eyed Bugs: Preys on Aphids, small Caterpillars and Caterpillar eggs, Flea beetles, Fleahoppers, Lygus bugs, Mites, Thrips, Whiteflies.
To attract Big-Eyed Bugs to your garden you will need to grow: Caraway (Carum carvi), Cosmos “white sensation” (Cosmos bipinnatus), Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), Alfalfa (Medicago sativa), Spearmint (Mentha spicata), Peter Pan Goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea), and Marigold “lemon gem” (Tagetes tenuifolia).
Caterpillars
To attract Assassin Bugs to your garden you will need to grow: Most garden plants, field crops, ornamental trees and shrubs. Spined assassin bugs are often found on goldenrod and other wildflowers.
Big-eyed Bugs: Big-eyed bugs are small (~3/16 inch long), fast moving true bugs. They are generalist predators and are most commonly seen on the ground or in shorter growing plants. They prey on aphids, small caterpillars and caterpillar eggs, fleahoppers, lygus bugs, mites, thrips, whiteflies. They are distinguished by their very large eyes which are as broad as the width of their body. Big-eyed bugs are not available commercially.
To attract Big-eyed bugs to your garden you will need to grow: Caraway (Carum carvi), Cosmos “white sensation” (Cosmos bipinnatus), Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), Alfalfa (Medicago sativa), Spearmint (Mentha spicata), Peter Pan Goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea), and Marigold “lemon gem” (Tagetes tenuifolia).
Braconid Wasps: prey on Tobacco Hornworm, Tomato Hornworm, Caterpillars, Aphids, Flea Beetles, and Mexican Bean Beetles.
To attract Braconid Wasps to your garden you will need to grow: Fern-leaf Yarrow, Common Yarrow, Dill, Lemon Balm, and Parsley.
Damsel Bugs: These true bugs are very common and abundant in farms, gardens and landscapes. They are generalist predators and both the adults and nymphs eat aphids, caterpillar eggs, small larvae, fleahoppers, lygus bugs, leafhoppers, treehoppers, spider mites, and other soft-bodied insects, especially on shorter growing plants. They are common in agricultural habitats, such as soybean, corn, and alfalfa. Damsel bugs are greyish brown in color and have grasping front legs. They are not commercially available.
To attract Damsel Bugs to your garden you will need to grow: Caraway (Carum carvi), Cosmos “white sensation” (Cosmos bipinnatus), Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), Alfalfa (Medicago sativa), Spearmint (Mentha spicata), Peter Pan Goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea), and Marigold “lemon gem” (Tagetes tenuifolia).
Ground Beetles: Prey on Snails, Slugs, Ants, Maggots, Earthworms, Caterpillars, Armyworms, Grubs, Colorado potato beetles, and Cutworms.
To attract Ground Beetles to your garden you will need to grow: evening primrose, amaranthus, and clover.
Hoverflies: Prey on aphids, scale insects, caterpillars, and Thrips.
To attract Hoverflies to your garden you will need to grow: Fern-leaf yarrow (Achillea filipendulina), Common yarrow (Achillea millefolium), Carpet bugleweed (Ajuga reptans), Lavender globe lily (Allium tanguticum), Basket of Gold (Alyssum saxatilis), Dill (Anethum graveolens), Golden Marguerite (Anthemis tinctoria), Dwarf alpine aster (Aster alpinus), Masterwort (Astrantia major), Four-wing saltbush (Atriplex canescens), Purple poppy mallow (Callirhoe involucrata), Caraway (Carum carvi), Feverfew (Chrysanthemum parthenium), Coriander (Coriandrum sativum), Cosmos white sensation (Cosmos bipinnatus), Queen Anne’s lace (Daucus carota), Buckwheat (Eriogonum fasciculatum CA), Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), Poached egg plant (Limnanthes douglasii), Statice (Limonium latifolium), Butter and eggs (Linaria vulgaris), Edging lobelia (Lobelia erinus), Sweet alyssum white (Lobularia maritima), Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis), Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium), Spearmint (Mentha spicata), Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa), Rocky Mountain penstemon (Penstemon strictus), Parsley (Petroselinum crispum), Sulfur cinquefoil (Potentilla recta ‘warrenii’), Alpine cinquefoil (Potentilla villosa), Gloriosa daisy (Rudbeckia fulgida), Orange stonecrop (Sedum kamtschaticum), Stonecrops (Sedum spurium), Peter Pan goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea), Wood betony (Stachys officinalis), Marigold “lemon gem” (Tagetes tenuifolia), Crimson thyme (Thymus serpylum coccineus), Spike speedwell (Veronica spicata), Zinnia "liliput" (Zinnia elegans).
Lacewings: Green lacewings are common generalist predators that feed on aphids. Brown lacewings are slightly smaller. Some species of adult lacewings are predaceous while the larvae are very active predators that feed on soft-bodied prey such as mites, aphids, leafhoppers, thrips, whiteflies, and pest eggs. Lacewings in nearly all life stages are commercially available.
To attract Lacewings to your garden you will need to grow: Fern-leaf yarrow (Achillea filipendulina), Dill (Anethum graveolens), Angelica (Angelica gigas), Golden marguerite (Anthemis tinctoria), Four-wing saltbush (Atriplex canescens), Purple poppy mallow (Callirhoe involucrata), Caraway (Carum carvi), Coriander (Coriandrum sativum), Cosmos white sensation (Cosmos bipinnatus), Queen Anne’s lace (Daucus carota), Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), Prairie sunflower (Helianthus maximilianii), Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare), Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale).
Minute Pirate Bugs: Minute pirate bugs are very small (~1/12 inch long) predators that are difficult to see without a hand lens or jeweler’s loupe. They are generalist predators that feed on small insect prey. Both the nymphs and adults are predaceous. The adults are identified by the black and white color and an X pattern across the back. The nymphs are tiny and red to orange in color. Minute pirate bugs are commercially available.
To attract Minute Pirate Bugs to your garden you will need to grow: Caraway (Carum carvi),
Cosmos “white sensation” (Cosmos bipinnatus), Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), Alfalfa (Medicago sativa), Spearmint (Mentha spicata), Peter Pan Goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea), and Marigold “lemon gem” (Tagetes tenuifolia).
Praying Mantis: Preys on a wide range including caterpillars, moths, beetles, and crickets.
To attract Praying Mantis to your garden you will need to grow: tall grasses and shrubs, cosmos, marigolds, and dills.
Thrips
To attract Big-eyed Bugs to your garden you will need to grow: Caraway (Carum carvi), Cosmos “white sensation” (Cosmos bipinnatus), Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), Alfalfa (Medicago sativa), Spearmint (Mentha spicata), Peter Pan Goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea), and Marigold “lemon gem” (Tagetes tenuifolia).
Hoverflies: Preys on Aphids, Scale insects, Caterpillars, and Thrips.
To attract Hoverflies to your garden you will need to grow: Fern-leaf yarrow (Achillea filipendulina), Common yarrow (Achillea millefolium), Carpet bugleweed (Ajuga reptans), Lavender globe lily (Allium tanguticum), Basket of Gold (Alyssum saxatilis), Dill (Anethum graveolens), Golden Marguerite (Anthemis tinctoria), Dwarf alpine aster (Aster alpinus), Masterwort (Astrantia major), Four-wing saltbush (Atriplex canescens), Purple poppy mallow (Callirhoe involucrata), Caraway (Carum carvi), Feverfew (Chrysanthemum parthenium), Coriander (Coriandrum sativum), Cosmos white sensation (Cosmos bipinnatus), Queen Anne’s lace (Daucus carota), Buckwheat (Eriogonum fasciculatum CA), Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), Poached egg plant (Limnanthes douglasii), Statice (Limonium latifolium), Butter and eggs (Linaria vulgaris), Edging lobelia (Lobelia erinus), Sweet alyssum white (Lobularia maritima), Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis), Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium), Spearmint (Mentha spicata), Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa), Rocky Mountain penstemon (Penstemon strictus), Parsley (Petroselinum crispum), Sulfur cinquefoil (Potentilla recta ‘warrenii’), Alpine cinquefoil (Potentilla villosa), Gloriosa daisy (Rudbeckia fulgida), Orange stonecrop (Sedum kamtschaticum), Stonecrops (Sedum spurium), Peter Pan goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea), Wood betony (Stachys officinalis), Marigold “lemon gem” (Tagetes tenuifolia), Crimson thyme (Thymus serpylum coccineus), Spike speedwell (Veronica spicata), Zinnia "liliput" (Zinnia elegans).
Minute Pirate Bugs: Prey on Spider Mites, Cabbage Looper, Insect Eggs, Caterpillars, Aphids, and Thrips.
To attract Minute Pirate Bugs to your garden you will need to grow: Plants that attract Minute Pirate Bugs are: Caraway (Carum carvi), Cosmos “white sensation” (Cosmos bipinnatus), Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), Alfalfa (Medicago sativa), Spearmint (Mentha spicata), Peter Pan Goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea), and Marigold “lemon gem” (Tagetes tenuifolia).
Slugs
To attract Earwigs to your garden you will need to grow: Celery (Apium graveolens), Beets (Beta vulgaris, Cabbages, Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea/Brassica rapa), Cucumber (Cucumis sativus), Dahlia, Carrot (Daucus carota), Carnation (Dianthus), Carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus), Strawberry (Fragaria ananassa), Hop (Humulus lupulus), Lettuce (Lactuca sativa), Lupin (Lupinus angustifolius), Apple (Malus domestica), Apricot (Prunus armeniaca), Sweet Cherry (Prunus avium), Plum (Prunus domestica), Peach (Prunus persica), European Pear (Pyrus communis), Rhubarb (Rheum hybridum), Roses (Rosa), Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), Potato (Solanum tuberosum), Grapevine (Vitis vinifera), Corn (Zea mays), Zinnia.
Ground Beetles: Prey on Snails, Slugs, Ants, Maggots, Earthworms, Caterpillars, Armyworms, Grubs, Colorado Potato Beetles, and Cutworms.
To attract Ground Beetles to your garden you will need to grow: Evening Primrose, Amaranthus, and Clover.
Aphids
Hornets, Paper Wasps, and Yellow Jackets all prey on aphids.
To attract Ladybugs to your garden you will need to grow: Angelica, Calendula, Caraway, Chives, Cilantro, Cosmos, Dill, Fennel, Feverfew, Marigold, Statice, Sweet Alyssum, and Yarrow. You may also want to grow decoy crops to keep your ladybugs supplied with aphids to eat such as Early cabbage, Marigold, Nasturtium, and Radish. Without a food source, your ladybugs will be forced to leave which will leave your crops vulnerable.
Soft-winged Flower Beetle or Collops Beetle: Collops beetles are commonly found on Alfalfa and Cotton plants in agricultural fields, landscapes and gardens. The adult eats aphids and the larvae are active predators in the soil. Two abundant species in Utah are the two-spotted melyrid and the soft-winged flower beetle. Collops beetles are not commercially available.
Soldier Beetles: The adult stage of the soldier beetle eats aphids. The larvae live in the soil and help to control soil-borne pests. There are beetles that look similar to soldier beetles such as blister beetles and click beetles, so use care when identifying them. Soldier beetles are not commercially available.
Since Soldiers Beetles lay their eggs in the soil, all you have to do to is grow good nectar or pollen producing plants like Asclepias (milkweed), Solidago (goldenrod), and, while it’s not well understood, they seem particularly attracted to hydrangeas. Soldier Beetles can be found on flowers where they lie and wait for prey. They also feed on nectar and pollen but do not damage the plants.
Long-legged Flies: There are many species of long-legged flies (Dolichopodidae), the adults of which are predators of soft-bodied pests such as thrips, aphids, spider mites, flea hoppers, booklice, flies, silverfish, small caterpillars, and a variety of other small insects. They also eat nectar from flowers. The adult is recognized by the long legs and tapered abdomen but also by the metalic green or blue color. Larvae of long-legged flies are maggot-like in appearance and develop in wet or dry soil, rotting vegetation, or under bark. They are not commercially available.
Syrphid, Flower, or Hover Flies: Syrphid flies are about the size of house flies and hover in flight. The adults, which sometimes resemble bees, are not predaceous, but the larvae are aphid predators. The larvae vary in color from green to brown, some with a stripe or two down the back. The body tapers to the mouthparts. Syrphid flies are not commercially available.
To attract Hover Flies to your garden try growing: Fern-leaf yarrow (Achillea filipendulina),
Common yarrow (Achillea millefolium), Carpet bugleweed (Ajuga reptans), Lavender globe lily (Allium tanguticum), Basket of Gold (Alyssum saxatilis), Dill (Anethum graveolens), Golden Marguerite (Anthemis tinctoria), Dwarf alpine aster (Aster alpinus), Masterwort (Astrantia major), \Four-wing saltbush (Atriplex canescens), Purple poppy mallow (Callirhoe involucrata), Caraway (Carum carvi), Feverfew (Chrysanthemum parthenium), Coriander (Coriandrum sativum), Cosmos white sensation (Cosmos bipinnatus), Queen Anne’s lace (Daucus carota), Buckwheat (Eriogonum fasciculatum CA), Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), Poached egg plant (Limnanthes douglasii), Statice (Limonium latifolium), Butter and eggs (Linaria vulgaris),
Edging lobelia (Lobelia erinus), Sweet alyssum white (Lobularia maritima), Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis), Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium), Spearmint (Mentha spicata), Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa), Rocky Mountain penstemon (Penstemon strictus), Parsley (Petroselinum crispum), Sulfur cinquefoil (Potentilla recta ‘warrenii’), Alpine cinquefoil (Potentilla villosa), Gloriosa daisy (Rudbeckia fulgida), Orange stonecrop (Sedum kamtschaticum), Stonecrops (Sedum spurium), Peter Pan goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea), Wood betony (Stachys officinalis), Marigold “lemon gem” (Tagetes tenuifolia), Crimson thyme (Thymus serpylum coccineus), Spike speedwell (Veronica spicata), Zinnia "liliput" (Zinnia elegans).
Predaceous Midges: The larvae of these flies are very small (~1/10 inch long), but are generalist predators of mites, aphids and other soft-bodied insects. The larvae are yellow to orange in color. The adults are not predatory. Predaceous midges are commercially available.
Damsel Bugs: These true bugs are very common and abundant in farms, gardens and landscapes. They are generalist predators and both the adults and nymphs eat aphids, caterpillar eggs, small larvae, fleahoppers, lygus bugs, leafhoppers, treehoppers, spider mites, and other soft-bodied insects, especially on shorter growing plants. They are common in agricultural habitats, such as soybean, corn, and alfalfa. Damsel bugs are greyish brown in color and have grasping front legs. They are not commercially available.
To attract Damsel Bugs to your garden you will need to grow: Caraway (Carum carvi), Cosmos “white sensation” (Cosmos bipinnatus), Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), Alfalfa (Medicago sativa), Spearmint (Mentha spicata), Peter Pan Goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea), and Marigold “lemon gem” (Tagetes tenuifolia).
Big-eyed Bugs: Big-eyed bugs are small (~3/16 inch long), fast moving true bugs. They are generalist predators and are most commonly seen on the ground or in shorter growing plants. They prey on aphids, small caterpillars and caterpillar eggs, fleahoppers, lygus bugs, mites, thrips, whiteflies. They are distinguished by their very large eyes which are as broad as the width of their body. Big-eyed bugs are not available commercially.
To attract Big-eyed bugs to your garden you will need to grow: Caraway (Carum carvi), Cosmos “white sensation” (Cosmos bipinnatus), Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), Alfalfa (Medicago sativa), Spearmint (Mentha spicata), Peter Pan Goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea), and Marigold “lemon gem” (Tagetes tenuifolia).
Minute Pirate Bugs: Minute pirate bugs are very small (~1/12 inch long) predators that are difficult to see without a hand lens or jeweler’s loupe. They are generalist predators that feed on small insect prey. Both the nymphs and adults are predaceous. The adults are identified by the black and white color and an X pattern across the back. The nymphs are tiny and red to orange in color. Minute pirate bugs are commercially available.
To attract Minute Pirate Bugs to your garden you will need to grow: Caraway (Carum carvi), Cosmos “white sensation” (Cosmos bipinnatus), Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), Alfalfa (Medicago sativa), Spearmint (Mentha spicata), Peter Pan Goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea), and Marigold “lemon gem” (Tagetes tenuifolia).
Lacewings: Green lacewings are common generalist predators that feed on aphids. Brown lacewings are slightly smaller. Some species of adult lacewings are predaceous while the larvae are very active predators that feed on soft-bodied prey such as mites, aphids, leafhoppers, thrips, whiteflies, and pest eggs. Lacewings in nearly all life stages are commercially available.
To attract Lacewings to your garden you will need to grow: Fern-leaf yarrow (Achillea filipendulina), Dill (Anethum graveolens), Angelica (Angelica gigas), Golden marguerite (Anthemis tinctoria), Four-wing saltbush (Atriplex canescens), Purple poppy mallow (Callirhoe involucrata), Caraway (Carum carvi), Coriander (Coriandrum sativum), Cosmos white sensation (Cosmos bipinnatus), Queen Anne’s lace (Daucus carota), Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), Prairie sunflower (Helianthus maximilianii), Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare), Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale).
Parasitic Wasps: There are several species of parasitoid wasps that parasitize aphids specifically. Parasitic wasps that specialize on aphids are very small (~1/8 inch long) and female wasps have a modified stinger for depositing eggs. The egg is injected into an aphid where the larva develops inside. Parasitized aphids are a light tan to gold color and have a bulbous look. A circular cut out on the rearend of the aphid indicates adult wasp emergence. Parasitic wasps are commercially available but there are abundant populations in the environment.
Hornets, Paper Wasps, Yellow Jackets: Although hornets, paper wasps and yellow jackets are often considered a nuisance, they are predators of soft-bodied insects. They do not typically sting humans unless they are disturbed. If their nests are not in an area likely to be disturbed by people then it is not a bad idea to leave them alone.
Nutrition
The Health Benefits of Cauliflower
Antioxidant Capacity: Brassica vegetables, such as cauliflower, contain vitamin C, manganese, and other potent antioxidants that help in imparting nourishment across a wide array of healthful categories. Cauliflower also contains phytochemicals, called indoles and glucosinates, namely glucobrassicin, glucoraphanin and gluconasturtiian. These healthful components stimulate cancer-blocking enzymes and protect the body cells from the oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals.
Cardiovascular Health: Cauliflower contains vitamin K, which possesses anti-inflammatory qualities. Regular consumption of cauliflower ensures healthy blood circulation and helps in maintaining the blood vessels, which can be attributed to the presence of glucoraphanin. Glucoraphanin is converted to isothiocyanates that activate anti-inflammatory activities and prevent the accumulation of lipids in the blood vessels. This aids in the unobstructed flow of blood, which reduces the risk of conditions like atherosclerosis and promotes cardiovascular health. Isothiocyanate, indole-3-carbinol, or I3C is an anti-inflammatory component that functions at the genetic level and inhibits the instigation of inflammatory activities at an early stage. As supported by various studies, indoles have been proven to be effective on the synthesis of lipids, the levels of triglycerides, cholesterol, and in maintaining cardiovascular health. Research has also proved that the anti-thrombotic and anti-platelet function of Indole-3 –carbinol contributes significantly towards a healthy heart. The omega-3 present in the form of alpha-lenolenic acids in cauliflower also contributes to this beneficial activity.
Stomach Disorders: Cauliflower is a source of dietary fiber that aids in digestion and promotes the elimination of toxins from the body. The presence of glucosinolate, glucoraphanin and sulforaphane in cauliflower protects the stomach lining and helps in resisting the growth of Heliobacter pylori bacteria. In addition to this defense mechanism, dietary isothiocyanates in cauliflower prevent the risk of various abdominal disorders such as stomach ulcers and colon cancer.
Respiratory Papillomatosis: Cauliflower contains indole-3-carbinol, which is effective in the treatment of recurrent respiratory papillomatosis. Respiratory papillomatosis is a disease caused by the human papilloma virus that affects the vocal cords in the larynx, trachea, lungs, and bronchi. Studies have shown that increased consumption of cruciferous vegetables, such as cauliflower, aids in reducing the severity of respiratory papillomatosis.
Cancer: Cauliflower contains glucosinolates, which break down to provide healthful compounds such as sulforaphane and isothiocyanates, called indole-3 carbinol. Studies have shown that these compounds have chemopreventive and anti-estrogen effects that help in hampering the growth of cancer cells. Research has provided supporting evidence for the fact that consumption of brassica vegetables such as cauliflower assists in reducing the risk of various types of cancers such as lung cancer, bladder cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, ovarian cancer, and cervical cancer.
Bone Health: Cauliflower contains vitamin C, which plays an important role in the production of collagen, which protects the joints and bones from inflammatory damage. Also, it contains vitamin K, which may help in preventing bone loss in both men and women.
Macular Degeneration: Cauliflower is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, so it may also be effective in reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) which can lead to blindness, particularly in the elderly. The sulforaphane present in cauliflower protects the retinal tissues from damage caused by the oxidative stress, prevents vision impairment and various eye ailments such as cataracts.
Detoxification: Inclusion of cruciferous vegetables such as cauliflower is extremely important for the body’s detox system. Cauliflower contains Indole-3-carbinol, a phytonutrient that, along with sulforaphane, helps in activating and regulating the function of detoxifying enzymes.
Ultraviolet Radiation: Research studies have shown that the sulforaphane present in cauliflower is effective in protecting the skin against the damage caused by ultraviolet radiation. The protective action of sulforaphane defends the body against inflammations, skin cancer, UV-induced erythema, and cellular damage.
Neurodegenerative Disorders: The sulforaphane and indoles present in cauliflower play a key role in reducing the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. They activate the detoxification enzymes, which elevates the level of glutathione and helps in treating the neuronal injuries caused by inflammation and oxidative stress in Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases.
Hypertension and Cholesterol: The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of the glucoraphanin and sulforaphane present in cauliflower help in reducing the oxidative stress, along with the levels of LDL and total cholesterol. It also promotes the stimulation of HDL cholesterol and lowers the blood pressure. In addition to this, the fiber and omega-3 fatty acid present in cauliflower also aids in the reduction of bad cholesterol and prevents hardening of the arteries.
Electrolyte Balance: Cauliflower contains potassium, which is one of the major electrolytes in the body. The potassium content helps in maintaining the electrolyte balance in the body, which is essential for the functioning of the nervous system in the transmission of nerve impulses and muscle contractions.
Immune System: Cauliflower is rich in antioxidants and immune-strengthening nutrients. Along with other healthful components, the presence of vitamin C in the cauliflower helps in preventing various kinds of infections and strengthens the defense mechanisms of the body by hampering the growth of disease-causing inflammation.
Obesity: Cauliflower contains healthful components such as indoles, which possess anti-obesity effects. Studies have supported the fact that consumption of cauliflower is beneficial in preventing various inflammation and metabolic disorders in the body. It also helps in the stimulation of fat-burning thermogenesis and prevents obesity.
Pregnancy: Inclusion of cauliflower in the diet is beneficial during pregnancy due to the presence of essential folate, which helps in healthy neural development of the baby. Cauliflower also has various other essential vitamins and minerals, including fiber, which promote overall health.
Brain and Cellular Health: Cauliflower contains choline and phosphorous, which are both effective in the repairing of cell membranes. This is essential for the efficient functioning of the brain and nervous system for transmitting nerve signals. In addition to this, the presence of potassium and vitamin B-6 in the cauliflower also plays an important role in maintaining brain health and promoting proper communication in the nerves by producing a range of required neurotransmitters, including dopamine and norepinephrine.
Diabetes: The regular intake of cauliflower helps in reducing the risk of diabetes due to the presence of vitamin C and potassium. The potassium content in cauliflower helps in regulating glucose metabolism. It is also utilized by the pancreas for secreting the insulin hormone for taking action against the raised levels of blood sugar in the body. Low levels of potassium in the body can eventually elevate the levels of blood glucose and pose a major threat for diabetics. In addition to this, studies have supported that the vitamin B-6 present in cauliflower is also effective in enhancing the tolerance of glucose in patients with gestational diabetes.
Colitis: Studies have suggested that extracts from cauliflower exert anti-inflammatory effects on the symptoms of ulcerative colitis. This protective effect can be attributed to the presence of phenethylisothiocyanate, which exerts a healing effect on the damage that has occurred in colon tissues and the colon epithelium.
Stroke: Research suggests that the consumption of white flesh fruits and vegetables such as cauliflower helps in reducing the risk of stroke, due to the presence of the compound allicin, which also aids in the cleansing of the liver and the blood.
Culinary Usage: Cauliflower is a versatile vegetable that can fit smartly in the menu as a side dish or in a main course in diverse cuisines all across the world. It can be lightly steamed or microwaved or it can be combined with other vegetables such as potatoes and peas for a delicious stir fry. Cauliflower can also be added to soups or can be shredded and used as a stuffing in the paranthas (stuffed Indian bread).
A Word of Caution:
Drug interactions:
Warfarin: Cauliflower is rich in vitamin K, which is utilized by the body for normal blood clotting. It can interact and reduce the effectiveness of anticoagulants like warfarin and coumadin which are prescribed to prevent the clotting of blood in the body. If taking anticoagulant drugs, it is always advisable to discuss the dietary intake of foods rich in vitamin K such as cauliflower with a health professional.
Side Effects:
Gas: Cauliflower contains complex carbohydrates that do not get broken down entirely in the digestive tract. These carbohydrates are fed upon by intestinal bacteria. This can sometimes result in bloating and the release of odorous gases such as hydrogen and carbon dioxide.
Purines: Cauliflower contains purines, which can cause various health concerns if consumed in excess. Purines break down to form uric acid and the excessive intake of purine-rich foods can lead to a build up of uric acid in the body. This can further pave the way for uric acid-related problems such as kidney stones and gout. It is advisable for people with such complications to limit their intake of purine-rich foods like cauliflower.
Anaphylaxis: Cauliflower may prompt anaphylaxis in some people, which means causing a severe bodily allergic reaction to a substance. Warning signs of such allergic reactions include swelling in certain body parts, itching, dyspnea, and breathing complications. It is always advisable to discontinue the usage of cauliflower in the occurrence of such critical symptoms and seek medical attention immediately.
Suggested Varieties
Amaranth: Love Lies Bleeding (Heirloom) (Amaranthus caudatus)
Amaranth: Red Garnet (Heirloom) (Amaranthus tricolor)
Balm: Lemon (Melissa officinalis)
Bergamot: Wild (Monarda fistulosa)
Broccoli: Green Sprouting Calabrese (Organic) (Brassica oleracea var. italica)
Broccoli: Purple Sprouting (Heirloom) (Brassica oleracea var. italica)
Broccoli: Waltham 29 (Heirloom) (Brassica oleracea var. italica)
Brussels Sprout: Long Island Improved (Heirloom) (Brassica oleracea var. gemmifera)
Cabbage: Early Jersey Wakefield (Heirloom) (Brassica oleracea var. capitata)
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Caraway (Carum carvi)
Carrots: Chantenay Red Cored (Heirloom) (Daucus carota)
Carrots: Cosmic Purple (Heirloom) (Daucus carota)
Carrots: Danvers (Heirloom) (Daucus carota)
Carrots: Rainbow Blend (Heirloom) (Daucus carota)
Carrots: Scarlet Nantes (Heirloom) (Daucus carota)
Carrots: Tendersweet (Heirloom) (Daucus carota)
Chives: Garlic (Allium tuberosum)
Chives: Onion (Allium schoenoprasum var. album)
Clover: Crimson (Trifolium incarnatum)
Coriander: Leisure (Coriandrum sativum)
Cosmos: Bright Lights (Cosmos sulphureus)
Cosmos: Candy Stripe (Cosmos bipinnatus)
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Cosmos: Radiance (Cosmos bipinnatus)
Dill: Dukat (Anethum graveolens)
English Marigold (Calendula officinalis)
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Fennel: Florence (Foeniculum vulgare var. azoricum)
Marigolds: Naughty Marietta (Tagetes patula)
Marigolds: Sparky Mix French (Tagetes patula)
Marigold: White (Tagetes Erecta 'Kilimanjaro')
Commonly called African marigold, Aztec marigold, American marigold or big marigold, is native to Mexico and Central America. Big marigold may be the best descriptive name because plants are noted for their large flowerheads. They typically grow from 1-4’ tall and feature huge, mostly double-globular flowers (2-4” diameter) in various shades of yellow, orange, and whitish. This variety is unaffected by high summer heat and generally blooms throughout the summer.
Mint: Pennyroyal (Mentha Pulegium)
Mint: Pepper (Mentha piperita)
Mint: Spear (Mentha spicata)
Nasturtiums: Empress of India (Tropaeolum minus)
Nasturtiums: Jewel Mix (Tropaeolum minus)
Parsley: Italian Giant (Heirloom) (Petroselinum crispum var. neapolitanum)
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Penstemon: Rocky Mountain (Penstemon strictus)
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Poached Egg Plant (Limnanthes douglasii)
This native species was first discovered by David Douglas, a Scottish botanist commissioned to collect native American plants suitable for the gardens of Great Britain. The species name "douglasii" honors his discovery, while the genus name "Limnanthes" means "marsh flower" because of this plant's preference for moist soil. This fragrant butterfly magnet has been awarded the Royal Horticultural Society's prestigious Award of Garden Merit.
Radish: Early Scarlet Globe (Heirloom) (Raphanus sativus)
Radish: German Giant (Heirloom) (Raphanus sativus)
Radish: Watermelon (Heirloom) (Raphanus sativus)
The Watermelon radish is a type of Japanese winter radish also known as a "daikon," which simply means "large root" in Japanese. Daikon radishes account for the largest percentage of any cultivated vegetable in Japan, and can be found in some form in nearly every meal of that country. Watermelon radishes, which orginated in north China near Beijing, are often served sweetened there as a dessert or fruit.
Radish: White Spear Sprouting (Heirloom) (Raphanus sativus)
Sage: Blue (Salvia farinacea)
Sage: Broadleaf (Salvia officinalis)
Broadleaf sage (Salvia officinalis), also called culinary sage, produces aromatic foliage suitable for kitchen use. The attractive. broad, gray-green leaves remain lush throughout summer, and the plant forms attractive blue or lavender flowers in early summer. Sage grows reliably as a perennial in U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 4 to 8, but it can be enjoyed as an annual in other climates. The bushy plant complements both herb gardens and ornamental beds while providing a summer-long harvest of leaves.
Sage: Kitchen (Salvia officinalis)
Sage: Meadow (Salvia Pratensis)
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Sage: Prairie (Artemisia frigida)
Sage: Scarlet (Salvia coccinea)
Thyme: Common (Thymus vulgaris)
Thyme: Creeping (Thymus serpyllum)
This plant is widely known as an herb. Thyme is the source of the oil Serpolet, which is used in herbal medicine. The plant is also often used as a food seasoning and the dried leaves may be used to make tea! This low growing plant with creeping, woody foliage bears small, lavender colored flower during the months of June and July. The hardy plant tolerates some pedestrian traffic and produces odors ranging from heavily herbal to lightly lemon, depending on the plant!
Tomato: Amana Orange (Heirloom) (Lycopersicon lycopersicum)
Tomato: Arkansas Traveler (Heirloom) (Lycopersicon lycopersicum)
The Arkansas Traveler is an open-pollinated heirloom variety of tomato that was bred by the University of Arkansas in 1968. The plant is indeterminate with round red fruits weighing approximately 6-8 ounces
Tomato: Beefsteak (Heirloom) (Lycopersicon lycopersicum)
Tomato: Green Zebra (Heirloom) (Lycopersicon lycopersicum)
Tomato: Sweetie Cherry (Heirloom) (Lycopersicon lycopersicum)
Tomato: Yellow Pear (Heirloom) (Lycopersicon lycopersicum)
Zinnia: Canary Bird (Zinnia elegans)
Zinnia: Cherry Queen (Zinnia elegans)
Zinnia: Exquisite (Zinnia elegans)
A unique and colorful Zinnia that offers a range of shades. Exquisite Zinnia is an easy to grow annual that blooms bright red and fades to soft rose pink as the blooms age. Definitely a favorite of gardeners, florists, or anyone who loves cut flowers.