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Can You Grow Cauliflower in California?

US · USDA Zone 9b · zones 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b

Grows well here

Cauliflower grows well here if you time it for your cool season — fall crops are often more reliable than spring.

Plant zones

2a–11b

California last frost

mid-January

California first frost

late December

Days to harvest

60–100 days

When to plant Cauliflowers in California

Start indoors

Jan 1

Transplant

Jan 10

Harvest

Mar 11 – Apr 20

Dates are approximate, based on California's average frost dates. Your exact yard may vary by microclimate.

About Cauliflower

Cauliflower is one of the most rewarding cool-season brassicas — and one of the trickiest. It forms a dense white head that needs steady cool weather and consistent moisture.

Start indoors 6 weeks before last frost; transplant 2-3 weeks before last frost. Blanch heads by tying leaves over them once they're 2-3 inches across. Harvest before curds loosen.

Full cauliflower growing guide →

Gardening in California

California spans more climate zones than any other state. Coastal regions are mild year-round; the Central Valley is hot and productive; mountains are cold; deserts are extreme.

See what grows well in California →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Cauliflower in California?

Cauliflower grows well here if you time it for your cool season — fall crops are often more reliable than spring.

What zone is California?

California spans USDA Zone 9b (5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b).

When do you plant Cauliflowers in California?

Plant Cauliflowers around mid-January (start indoors Jan 1), harvest Mar 11 – Apr 20.