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Can You Grow Cauliflower in North Carolina?

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

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

North Carolina last frost

late February

North Carolina first frost

early December

Days to harvest

60–100 days

When to plant Cauliflowers in North Carolina

Start indoors

Jan 17

Transplant

Feb 28

Harvest

Apr 29 – Jun 8

Dates are approximate, based on North Carolina'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 North Carolina

North Carolina spans the mountains (Zone 5b-6a), Piedmont (Zone 7a-7b), and coastal plain (Zone 8a). Long warm seasons support tobacco, sweet potatoes, and a wide range of vegetables.

See what grows well in North Carolina →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Cauliflower in North Carolina?

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

What zone is North Carolina?

North Carolina spans USDA Zone 7b (5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a).

When do you plant Cauliflowers in North Carolina?

Plant Cauliflowers around late February (start indoors Jan 17), harvest Apr 29 – Jun 8.