When Is the Best Time to Plant Cauliflower in Open Fields in Northern China

In northern China, many friends grow cauliflower, which is the same variety as what we call huacai. So do you know the planting time for open-field cauliflower in northern China? Let's take a look!

1. Planting time for open-field cauliflower in northern China

Open-field cultivation of cauliflower in northern China can be carried out in two seasons. April and July are both good times to plant, specifically chosen according to the ambient temperature.

2. Cauliflower planting methods

1. Choose good varieties. In spring, use mid- and late-maturing varieties; in autumn, use early- and mid-maturing varieties.

2. For autumn cauliflower, the sowing period should be followed even more strictly. Generally sow from late June to early July, transplant from late July to early August, and finish harvesting from late September to late October.

3. Cultivate strong seedlings of the right age. Use nutrient pots for seedling raising. The germination and seedling stages of autumn cauliflower occur during the hot, rainy season, so shade-covering measures should be taken. Generally, autumn cauliflower seedlings are 25—30 days old and are transplanted when they have 5—6 leaves; spring cauliflower seedlings are kept for 70—80 days and transplanted when they have 5—7 leaves.

4. Ensure water and fertilizer supply. After cauliflower is transplanted, along with watering to help the seedlings recover, apply 10 kg of urea per mu, then begin seedling hardening. When the curd diameter is about 3 cm, end seedling hardening, and with watering apply 25 kg of urea per mu. After that, water once every 4—5 days, taking care to keep the bed surface moist.

5. Pay attention to pest control. Spray with 2.5% decamethrin 5000-fold solution or 20% fenvalerate 2000-fold solution to control aphids and cabbage caterpillars. Be careful not to use highly toxic pesticides.