==Cauliflower==

==Brassica oleracea botrytis cauliflora==

This fine vegetable is managed in much the same way as Broccoli, and it requires similar conditions.  But it is less hardy in constitution, more elegant in appearance, more delicate on the table, and needs greater care in cultivation to insure satisfactory results.  As regards soil, the Cauliflower thrives best on very rich ground of medium texture.  It will also do well on light land, if heavily manured, and quick growth is promoted by abundant watering.  In Holland, Cauliflowers are grown in sand with water at the depth of a foot only below the surface, and the ground is prepared by liberal dressings of cow-manure, which, with the moisture rising from below, promotes a quick growth and a fine quality.  In any case, good cultivation is necessary or the crop will be worthless; and whatever may be the nature of the soil, it must be well broken up and liberally manured.

In gardens where Cauliflower are in great demand, an unbroken supply of heads from May to November may be obtained by selecting suitable varieties and with careful management of the crop.  But in arranging for a succession it should be borne in mind that some varieties are specially adapted for producing heads in spring and summer, while others are only suitable for use in late summer and autumn.

==For Spring and Early Summer use.==—­To have Cauliflower in perfection in spring and early summer, seed should be sown in autumn.  The exact time is a question of climate.  In the northern counties the middle of August is none too early, but for the south seed may be got in during August and September, according to local conditions.  The most satisfactory course is to sow in boxes, placed in a cool greenhouse or a cold frame, or even in a sheltered spot out of doors.  For these sowings it is desirable to use poor soil of a calcareous nature, as at this period of the year the seedlings are liable to damp off in rich earth.  From the commencement every endeavour must be made to keep the growth sturdy and to avoid a check of any kind.  When the plants have made some progress, prick them off three inches apart each way into frames for the winter.  No elaborate appliances are necessary.  A suitable frame may be easily constructed by erecting wooden sides around a prepared bed of soil, over which lights, window frames, or even a canvas covering may be placed.  Brick pits, or frames made with turf walls, will also answer well.  The soil should not be rich, or undesirable fleshy growth will result, especially in a mild winter.  It is important to ventilate freely at all times, except during severe weather when the structures should have the protection of mats or straw, and excessive moisture must be guarded against.  As soon as conditions are favourable in February or March, transfer the plants to open quarters on the best land at command, and give them every possible care.  For these early-maturing varieties a space of eighteen inches apart each way will generally suffice.  With liberal treatment, vigorous healthy growth should be made and heads of the finest quality be ready for table from May onwards.