Origin
The cauliflower originates from the Mediterranean coast of the island of Cyprus. In central Europe, the vegetable was introduced at the end of the 16th century. It has been widely cultivated since the beginning of the 20th century. Cauliflower is a cabbage vegetable.
Consumption
Cauliflower is used in a variety of ways for cooking: soups, salads, stir-fries, canning and freezing.
Nutritional value
Cauliflower contains 4,9 % carbohydrates, 2,5 % protein, 0,34 % fat, 70 mg % vitamin C, 10 mg % each of vitamins B and B, 0,6 mg % of vitamin PP, and the following minerals: 116 mg % of potassium, 99 % of calcium, 48 % of sodium, 29 % of phosphorus, 17 % of magnesium, 0,6 mg of iron. Similar in nutrient composition to Brussels sprouts, with more protein, potassium, phosphorus, iron and vitamin C. Cauliflower is very suitable for dietary use. Due to its mild fiber content, it is recommended for the diet of children and elderly people, for gastrointestinal diseases and gout. It promotes fluid absorption, is very useful in heart and kidney diseases and heals the mucous membrane of the large intestine. Cauliflower is calorie-free: up to 29 kcal per 100 g.
Varieties
‘Amerigo H’. Medium late maturity. Resistant to disease and adverse conditions. ‘Bruce H’. Early maturing. Inflorescence white, covered with leaves. ‘Lecanu H’. Medium-late. Resistant to adverse conditions.
Location
Suitable for a sunny position.
Soil and substrates
Grows well in fertilized, humusy, moderate to light loamy soil with a pH of 6,5-7,5. If nutrients are deficient, fertilize with compost (3-4 kg/m2) before planting. During the growing season, additional fertilizer should be added with fermented nettle or dandelion solutions (1:5). Nutrient requirements The soil must be rich in nutrients.
Sowing and planting
Sowing, growing and planting in the garden follow the same procedure as for white Brussels sprouts. Plant healthy, strong seedlings with 5-6 dark green leaves and a well-developed root system. Seedlings are planted in April for the June harvest, in May for the July-August harvest and in June for the September harvest. An area of 1 m2 requires 0,04 g of seed.
Care of the plant
Watering, fertilizing and loosening of the soil is necessary. Apply 3 times every 15-20 days. When hoed, the cauliflower puts out adventitious roots. When the inflorescence is the size of a walnut, it is shaded by breaking a leaf over the head and covering the head with it.
Pests and diseases
Same as white cabbage.
Harvest
The heads are cut when firm, not thinning and the color of the inflorescence is intact. Eaten fresh or chilled.