Growing cauliflower in KZN can be both rewarding and challenging. With the right variety and growing conditions, this cool-season crop can thrive with well-timed planting. Whether you’re growing for local markets or just to grow for your family, you want to get it right.
You can have some fun in the garden experimenting with different varieties of cauliflower. This gorgeous purple cauliflower was grown right here on Fairview by one of our farmers.
A few reasons to grow Cauliflower:
- Strong Market Demand – Cauliflower is popular in supermarkets, farmers’ markets, and even with health-conscious consumers looking for low-carb alternatives like cauliflower rice and pizza bases.
- Good Off-Season Prices – Because cauliflower is a bit tricky to grow in heat, prices tend to be higher when fewer farmers can produce it successfully.
- Versatile Growing Areas – While cauliflower prefers cool temperatures, certain varieties do well in different parts of SA.
- Health Benefits – It’s high in vitamins C and K, and is also a good source of folate, which supports cell growth and is essential during pregnancy. Cauliflower is fat-free and cholesterol-free. And it’s low in sodium. A one-cup serving contains only 25 calories, 5 grams of carbohydrates and 2 grams of dietary fiber.
- Versatile Veggie – can be eaten raw, cooked, roasted, grilled, baked into a pizza crust, or cooked and mashed as a substitute for mashed potatoes. You can even rice cauliflower and serve it in place of white rice.
Best Cauliflower Varieties for our warmer climate:
Choosing the right variety can make all the difference.
- Early Varieties (50–70 days)
These are great for farmers looking for quick turnover and early market sales.
- Snowball X – A popular white variety that grows well in moderate climates.
- Snow Crown – Good for slightly warmer conditions, with quick maturity.
- Mid-Season Varieties (70–90 days)
These do well in areas with stable cool temperatures.
- Amazing – Naturally self-blanching (stays white without needing to be covered).
- Graffiti – A stunning purple variety that stands out.
- Late Varieties (90+ days)
Best for winter planting in cooler regions like the Western Cape.
- Autumn Giant – A hardy variety that does well in colder months.
- Mayfair – Produces large, firm heads but takes longer to mature.
- Colourful Varieties:
- White Cauliflower (Fremont, Snowball) – The standard type, mild and versatile.
- Purple Cauliflower (Graffiti, Purple Head) – Looks cool and has extra antioxidants.
- Orange Cauliflower (Cheddar, Flame Star) – Naturally sweet with extra beta-carotene.
- Green Cauliflower (Broccoflower) (Romanesco, Vitaverde) – A cross between broccoli and cauliflower with a nuttier taste.
Challenges of Growing Cauliflower in KZN:
- Heat Sensitivity – Cauliflower doesn’t like extreme heat, making summer growing tough in most regions. Coastal and high-altitude areas tend to have better results.
- Pests and Diseases – Cabbage worms, aphids, and clubroot are common issues. Crop rotation and natural pest control methods (like using neem oil or planting marigolds) can help.
- Blanching for White Heads – In hotter regions, cauliflower heads can yellow in the sun. Some farmers cover them with leaves, but choosing self-blanching varieties saves effort.
Tips for Success:
- Plant at the Right Time – The best growing season is autumn to early winter in most areas, avoiding extreme heat.
- Prepare the Soil Well – Cauliflower needs fertile, well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter.
- Irrigation is Key – Consistent watering helps prevent “buttoning,” where the plant produces tiny, undeveloped heads.
- Market Smart – Selling fresh to supermarkets, farm stalls, and local markets can bring good returns. Specialty varieties (like purple or orange cauliflower) can attract premium prices.
Cauliflower farming is all about timing, variety selection, and good soil management. If you get it right, it’s a high-value crop with strong demand. Whether you’re growing for personal use or small-scale farming, cauliflower is worth the effort!
Images: Getty images and Olga Kriger
