Page 1 of 1

CAULIFLOWERS - 'BLOWING'

Posted: Sat Dec 10, 2011 11:03 pm
by Compo
What is it that makes caulis flower in an open style as opposed to nice compact curds? Is it the mild weather, do they prefer cold?

CoMpO

Re: CAULIFLOWERS - 'BLOWING'

Posted: Sun Dec 11, 2011 10:11 pm
by solway cropper
It often happens when they get a shock, ie. sudden change in their growing conditions.

Cabbage root fly will also cause them to blow.

Re: CAULIFLOWERS - 'BLOWING'

Posted: Sun Dec 11, 2011 11:04 pm
by Compo
So if the conditions have not changed, how do I know if it is the Cabbage Root Fly, what are the signs and symptoms?

CoMpO

Re: CAULIFLOWERS - 'BLOWING'

Posted: Mon Dec 12, 2011 6:32 am
by Marigold
They still taste good...

Re: CAULIFLOWERS - 'BLOWING'

Posted: Tue Dec 13, 2011 11:06 am
by FelixLeiter
Are you getting to them in time? It has been unseasonably mild, which means that the curds are maturing rather faster than you might suppose. Just a thought, but the variety might have a bearing. If you're growing summer cauliflowers into the winter, they may not be as resilient to blowing. And another, further, thought: wind rock might be a problem, breaking the roots and stressing them. Tricky chaps, cauliflowers, but rewarding when everything comes together.