Cauliflower Seeds,
Green Macerata

3.97 ReviewsSKU: #CA105Min. seed count: 150
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Description

(Brassica oleracea). A delicious Italian variety with 2-lb, bright apple-green heads that are superb cooked or raw in salads. Very attractive, vigorous plants, fairly early.

Growing Tips: Green Macerata cauliflower is somewhat self-blanching, meaning its leaves naturally curl over the head, providing some protection from the sun and preventing discoloration. It is best grown in cooler temperatures, making it ideal for fall planting. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Brassica oleracea
Life Cycle
Biennial
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
7–10
Days to Maturity
60–70
Planting Depth
¼–½ in.
Plant Spacing
18–20 in.
Ideal Temperature
50–75°F
Frost Hardy
Yes

When to Grow

Green Macerata Cauliflower is a cool-season crop. It's best to plant it in early spring for a summer harvest or late summer for a fall harvest, depending on your region. Aim to sow seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date and transplant them outside 2-4 weeks before the last frost. For fall crops, sow seeds directly outdoors in mid to late summer​. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Start seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. Sow seeds 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep in seed-starting mix. Transplant seedlings when they have two true leaves, spacing them 18-20 inches apart. The soil should be fertile, well-drained, and rich in organic matter with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Cauliflower seedlings should be hardened off before being transplanted outdoors.

How to Grow

>Green Macerata cauliflower requires consistent moisture for the best growth. Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Mulching can help retain soil moisture and keep weeds down. This variety is a heavy feeder, so incorporate compost or a balanced fertilizer at planting and side-dress during the growing season. Protect from pests such as cabbage worms and aphids by using row covers or organic insecticides.

How to Save Seeds

  • For a seed saving crop, isolate cauliflower from other brassicas (such as broccoli and kale) by one mile to avoid cross pollination.
  • Select your best plants to keep for seed and leave them to flower.
  • In short-season areas with harsh winters, the plants can be mulched and left in the ground with a row cover, and in the second season the plant will send up flower stalks from the head. As they mature, they will become seed pods.
  • Once the plant has died back and the seed stalks/pods are brown and dry, pull the entire plant and hang it for up to two weeks in a dry, well-ventilated area.
  • Break open the seed pods with your hands or a rolling pin over a container such as a bowl or plate, and separate and extract the seeds.
  • Properly stored (keep them cool and dry!), the seeds of cauliflower and other brassicas will be viable for up to five years.

FAQ

What is the ideal climate for growing Green Macerata cauliflower?

Like all cauliflowers, it grows best in cool, mild climates. It's suited for USDA zones 2-11 and performs well as a fall crop or in areas with cooler summers.

How long does Green Macerata cauliflower take to mature?

Typically, it takes about 60-70 days, depending on growing conditions.

What type of soil is best for Green Macerata cauliflower?

A well-draining, fertile soil rich in organic matter with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal. The soil should also be kept consistently moist for optimal growth.

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