Cauliflower
Cauliflower
Cauliflower is broccoli and cabbage’s more sensitive cousin. It can be negatively affected by extreme temperature fluctuations like those often experienced in KY’s spring and fall months and is very sensitive to drought, so irrigation is a must. That being said, the crop has a lot of potential in KY, especially the colored varieties when an emphasis is placed on their additional health benefits.
Key Requirements
| Land: | Low |
| Labor: | Medium |
| Capital: | Medium |
Take the HortBizQuiz to see how much Land, Labor, and Capital you have for your operation.
Markets
- Direct to Consumer
- Restaurants
- Auctions
Pest & Disease
Diseases can be managed through good crop rotation and resistant varieties. A scouting program and insect traps should be used to monitor pest populations.
Costs and returns are presented as estimates. They will vary based on your farm and markets.
Costs and returns are presented as estimates. They will vary based on your farm and markets.
Challenges
- Can be difficult to grow in climates that are unpredictable.
- Cauliflower is likely a better crop for direct, niche and well-developed local markets.
- Additional labor is required on some varieties for “blanching.”
Opportunities
- Slightly rolling land can be suitable for cauliflower
- Smaller heads are often preferred by retail customers, meaning closer plant spacing, meaning more plants per acre.