It is annoying when the culture in the garden begins to bloom prematurely. In cabbage plants, shooting is a common problem when the environment does not ensure optimal conditions. It is therefore important that you choose the right location and take good care of it.
If cauliflower is planted too early, it can flower prematurely
growth
Cauliflower is a cultivated form of cabbage. In the first year, the plant develops an inflorescence consisting of fleshy, head-like shoots. Therefore, cauliflower is a flowering vegetable. In the course of the growing season, the compressed shoot stretches and blooms. The flower loses its consistency and becomes increasingly bitter as the stems become woody…
Why the cauliflower shoots
In addition to a late harvest date, other factors can also be considered as causes. If the planting takes place too early, the plants will be surprised by cold spells. These climatic conditions trigger premature flower development because the plants produce enough seeds before the supposed winter.
Other influencing factors:
- Irrigation is insufficient
- Nitrate content in the soil is too high
- many warm and dry days in a row
Expectations
The cabbage prefers a sunny to semi-shady location, with six hours of sunshine a day being ideal. Avoid beds where excessive heat builds up. Clubroots do well at a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Algae lime improves acidic substrates. Humus substrates that have a high water storage capacity increase yields. Medium-heavy soils are ideal. Pile up the plants after they have established themselves.
cultivation
Protect the plants with black foil if you put them in the garden early. If the soil is too wet, you should wait before planting. Keep a distance of at least 50 centimeters so that the heads can develop well. In the spring it is advisable to hoe the bed regularly.
Water and fertilize
The flowering vegetables have a high water requirement. Lack of water leads to the formation of small heads that shoot prematurely. A layer of mulch prevents the soil from drying out too quickly. The heavy feeders value a good supply of nutrients in the form of compost. Occasional doses of horn shavings (€32.93) ensure an even nutrient balance during the growing season. The right mediocrity is crucial, since over-fertilization also leads to shooting.
tips
A cold stimulus is required after the development of flower buds. Temperatures between ten and 14 degrees ensure that a harvest-ready flower forms.
Harvest on time
The harvest period varies depending on the variety planted. In general, cauliflower is mature eight to twelve weeks after planting. As a result, the harvest window extends from July to August and can extend into October for late breeds. You can harvest cauliflower when the flower is tightly closed. Don't cut off the leaves as they keep the head fresh and prolong its shelf life.