[Arid_gardener] Re:"Bleaching" Cauliflower

[Olin Miller]

----- Original Message ----- From: <peanutsgg1 at cox.net>
Sent: Sunday, January 29, 2006 8:57 AM
> I have planted cauliflower and am now producing heads about 5-6inches
> around.  I have been told that I have to tie back the leaves to bleach
> the plant, but the person could not remember how.  Also, I would like
> to know when is the correct time to harvest.
=========================================

To get the very white curds, it is usually recommended that one gather
the side leaves and tie them together at the top to blanch to the heads
and shut out light.  There are varieties that are said to be
self-blanching such that it isn't necessary to do that.  But I have
found that one gets more attractive and tighter heads by tieing the
leaves.

Harvest anytime you feel it's big enough to eat.

Olin Miller
Master Gardener Volunteer