Description
This is a premium, reliable variety of cauliflower known for producing large, dense, and beautifully white heads (curds). The flavour is classic cauliflower: mild, slightly sweet, and earthy, perfect for roasting, steaming, blending into soups, or pickling (ġardiniera). Being an autumn-winter variety, it is better suited to avoid the intense heat stress of Maltese summer, which often causes other cauliflower varieties to ‘button’ (form small, premature heads). This variety is known for a good self-wrapping habit, where the outer leaves curl over to protect the curd, naturally keeping it white.
When to Plant: This variety is best transplanted in Malta during late August to early October. This timing allows the plant to grow its main foliage during the warm, but not scorching, autumn and develop its head during the cooler months, ensuring a high-quality curd.
Location/Sun: Cauliflower is a hungry, sun-loving plant. Choose a spot that receives full, direct sun throughout the day.
Soil & Potting: Cauliflower requires a deep, fertile, and very rich soil that drains well. Before planting your seedling, dig in a generous amount of well-aged compost or manure, as it is a heavy feeder. Space the seedlings widely—at least 50-60 cm apart—as the plant needs ample room for its large outer leaves to grow.
Watering: Consistent and abundant watering is critical. Cauliflower will not form a good head if it experiences drought stress. Water deeply and frequently, especially during dry spells and as the head begins to form. The soil should be kept continuously moist.
Fertiliser: Feed regularly every 3-4 weeks with a high-nitrogen fertiliser (early growth) and switch to a balanced feed once the head starts to form.
Blanching (Self-Protection): This Bianco Autunnale variety often self-blanches (the leaves naturally protect the curd). However, if you notice the head starting to form and it is exposed to sunlight, snap or tie a few large outer leaves together over the top of the curd. This blocks the sun and ensures the curd remains a brilliant white, rather than yellowing.
Harvesting: Harvest when the head is large, firm, and dense. Cut the main stalk below the head, leaving a few wrapper leaves attached for protection and storage. The 100-110 days time frame starts from the date the seedling was transplanted.
Why Buy Seedlings? Cauliflower can be tricky to grow from seed, often failing due to initial stress. Our healthy, established White Autumn Cauliflower seedlings are perfectly timed for the Maltese autumn planting window, giving you a strong start toward a beautiful, bountiful winter harvest.
