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Cauliflower plants are usually started in a greenhouse from seeds. After 35 days, the young plants are transplanted to the field. Cauliflower plants require rich fertile soil, good moisture, and cool temperatures to grow. After being transplanted to the field, the cauliflower plant grows for another 80-110 days. |
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As the plant grows, a flower bud forms in the center of the plant. It is very important to protect the developing cauliflower from the sun while it grows. Workers fold the large outer leaves of the plant over the head of cauliflower (creating a tent with the leaves) to protect it from sunlight. This prevents the cauliflower from turning yellow. |
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Harvesting a field of cauliflower is a long process and can take up to three weeks. Workers must make five to six passes through the entire field, each time checking to see if the head of cauliflower is ready to harvest. In the field, the leaves are trimmed away and the cauliflower is packed carefully to prevent bruising. Cauliflower is very delicate and bruises easily. |
