When to plant Cauliflower in Highlands County, FL
Cauliflower planted in Highlands County between January 8 and January 29 matures in 55–100 days — well before the December 20 first frost. A second sowing from October 25 to November 8 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Cauliflower in Highlands County, FL
Cauliflower is a cool-season brassica that produces dense white, purple, or green heads called curds. It is more finicky than broccoli but rewards with a mild, nutty flavor.
Highlands County, Florida is in USDA Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is January 29 and the first fall frost is December 20, giving you a growing season of approximately 325 days.
At an elevation of 111 feet, Highlands County receives approximately 57.6 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly sand soil. Summer highs average 95°F, so Cauliflower may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Sandy soil warms quickly in spring — great for early planting — but Cauliflower will need more frequent watering and organic matter to retain nutrients. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Cauliflower root diseases.
Highlands County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
How Much Cauliflower to Grow
For a family of 4, plant approximately 12 cauliflower plants in about 24 sq ft. In Highlands County's 325-day season, you'll have plenty of time for a full harvest. Plan your garden layout →
Cauliflower Planting Timeline — Highlands County, FL
Cauliflower Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | January 1 | Jan 1 – Jan 15 |
| Transplant Outdoors | January 29 | Jan 29 – Feb 12 |
| Direct Sow | January 8 | Jan 8 – Jan 29 |
| Harvest | March 26 | Mar 26 – May 28 |
| Fall Sowing | October 25 | Oct 25 – Nov 8 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | Start Indoors Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| February | Transplant Outdoors |
| March | Harvest |
| April | Harvest |
| May | Harvest |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | Fall Sowing |
| November | Fall Sowing |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
High — keep soil consistently moist
📅 Days to Maturity
55–100 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 9b
📆 Growing Season
325 days in Highlands County
Growing Tips for Highlands County
Start seeds indoors 6 weeks before transplanting. Blanch white varieties by tying outer leaves over the head. Provide consistent moisture and avoid temperature extremes.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Cauliflower in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Cauliflower in Highlands County, FL?
Highlands County is in Zone 9b with an average last frost of January 29. Plan your Cauliflower planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Highlands County, FL?
Highlands County, Florida is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is January 29 and first fall frost is December 20.
When should I plant Cauliflower in Highlands County, FL?
In Highlands County, FL, plant Cauliflower after the last frost (around January 29) and before the first frost (around December 20). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Highlands County, FL for Cauliflower?
Highlands County sits in USDA Zone 9b. Cauliflower grows reliably in zones 2a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Cauliflower grow in Highlands County's climate?
Yes — Cauliflower grows well in Highlands County's temperate climate. Highlands County averages a 326-day frost-free season, with last frost around January 29 and first frost around December 20.
Your Highlands County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Highlands County (Zone 9b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.