CAULIFLOWER ‘Selection 174’ Vegetable Seeds
‘Selection 174’ is a vigorous and early-maturing variety, ideal for home gardeners and market growers alike. It produces dense, white, dome-shaped heads with excellent uniformity and flavour. Known for its strong adaptability, it performs well in a range of climates, particularly in cooler seasons. The heads are well-protected by upright leaves, helping to maintain their quality and colour.
Plant Type:
- Cool season biennial, frost tolerant
- Plant Height: Typically grows 40 – 50 cm tall
Sow When:
- Germinate best between 15 – 20°C soil temperature
- Temperate: Late summer to early autumn
- Subtropical: Autumn for winter harvest
- Tropical: Autumn only – avoid hot, humid conditions
- Arid: Early spring or late summer; avoid peak heat
- Cool Climate: Spring or early autumn for best results
Germination:
- Depth: Sow seeds 1 cm deep
- Position: Full sun to partial shade
- Sow Where: Start in seed trays or direct into well-drained beds; keep moist until germination
Soil Type:
- Details: Rich, well-drained soil with a neutral pH (6.0 – 7.0); improve with compost before planting
Rows:
- Spacing: 30 – 40 cm between plants; rows spaced 50 – 60 cm apart
Details:
- Days to Harvest: 55 – 75 days from transplanting
- Keep well watered during head formation for best quality.
- Mulch around plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Cauliflower Growing Guide
Timing:
- Temperate areas: Sow late December to May.
- Very cool, highland areas: Sow October to February.
- Inland areas: Sow February to September.
- Subtropical areas: Sow March to June.
- Tropical areas: Sow April to July.
Climate Considerations:
- Cauliflowers struggle in subtropical and tropical regions due to hot weather.
- Hybrid varieties are preferable in hotter climates as they resist bolting (going to seed prematurely) and maintain quality.
- Plant early in hotter areas to ensure maturity before spring warmth.
Planting:
- Sow seeds 10mm deep in trays or seedbeds. Germination typically takes 4-10 days.
- Transplant seedlings by removing seed leaves and planting deeper, up to the first set of true leaves.
- Space plants 40cm apart in rows 60-75cm apart.
Soil Requirements:
- Cauliflowers thrive in fertile, well-drained soil with a pH of 6-7.5.
- Amend soil with well-rotted compost or animal manure to ensure adequate nutrients.
- Keep soil consistently moist, especially during the growing period.
Fertilization:
- Cauliflowers are heavy feeders, requiring ample nitrogen and potassium.
- Apply organic fertilizers when plants are half-grown to support healthy growth.
Harvesting:
- Harvest cauliflowers while heads are still tight and white.
- Avoid waiting too long, as over-mature heads can become discolored or develop loose curds.
By following these simple steps, you can cultivate delicious cauliflowers in your Australian garden. Remember to adjust planting times and varieties based on your specific climate zone for optimal results.
