Cauliflower Neckarperle - organic seeds

Neckarperle Cauliflower Seeds – A High-Yielding and Tasty Variety

The Neckarperle cauliflower is a strong variety with a perfectly round, pure white head. Its vigorous foliage naturally protects the florets while promoting optimal development. Ideal for open-field cultivation, this variety offers an abundant and delicious harvest.

How to Grow Neckarperle Cauliflower?

Sowing

Cauliflower thrives in rich, fresh, slightly clayey soil with consistent moisture. The best exposure depends on the region:

• North of the Loire: full sun.
• South of the Loire: partial shade to prevent excessive heat.

Sowing periods:

• Summer and autumn varieties (e.g., Romanesco, Flora Blanca): under cover from February to April.
• Winter varieties (e.g., Violet du Cap): directly in the ground from April to July.
• Spring varieties: sow in autumn for harvest in the following spring.

Transplanting:
When the seedlings have 3-4 leaves, transplant them into open ground with 60-80 cm spacing between plants.

Cauliflower Care

• Watering: frequent and abundant, especially in summer. Avoid wetting the leaves to prevent diseases.
• Mulching: conserves soil moisture in summer and protects against cold in winter.
• Weeding: essential to prevent weed competition.
• Hilling and mulching: improves root anchoring and reduces watering frequency.
• Covering the florets: use large leaves to shield the cauliflower heads from sunlight.

Tips & Tricks

• Use wood ash rich in potassium and calcium to boost floret development.
• Avoid excessive nitrogen, which promotes leaf growth over flowers.

Harvest and Storage

• Harvest when the head is large and compact.
• Consume immediately or store for 4-5 days in the refrigerator.
• Blanched cauliflower can be frozen for longer storage.

Diseases and Pests

• Downy mildew: prevent with Bordeaux mixture sprays.
• Powdery mildew: appears as a white powdery layer on leaves.
• Cabbage white butterfly: caterpillars eat leaves (treat with wormwood infusion or diluted black soap).
• Flea beetles: tiny holes in leaves (keep soil moist and use elderberry decoctions).
• Slugs and snails: common in humid conditions.
• Cutworms: caterpillars that attack stems (frequent hoeing helps).

Companion Planting

• Garlic, chives, shallots, onions: naturally repel pests.
• Clover: protects against cabbage root flies.
• Green beans: limit aphid infestations.

Health Benefits of Cauliflower

Cauliflower is rich in fiber, minerals (calcium, magnesium, potassium), and vitamins B & C. It is versatile in cooking, whether raw or cooked: soups, salads, gratins, or even roasted whole. Regular consumption supports good digestion and strengthens the immune system.