Seeds (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis)

Baladi cauliflower (the Egyptian "white flower") prizes its tight, snow-white curd, a dense dome of immature flower buds with a mild, gently nutty flavour. Unlike broccoli, which Egyptians grow separately as "broccoli", this variety forms one compact head that roasts, steams and stews beautifully in classic Egyptian kitchens. It is a true cool-season winter crop, since firm, sweet curds only form in mild weather.

Planting

Sow seeds about 1.5 cm deep, ideally indoors or in modules at 12-22°C; seedlings emerge in roughly two weeks. In Egypt this is a winter crop: in the Delta and north coast sow from late summer (Aug-Sep) and transplant in Sep-Oct, while in hotter Upper Egypt delay transplanting to Oct-Nov. Set full-size plants about 45-60 cm apart in rows around 60 cm apart.

Fertilizing

Mix a balanced fertiliser such as 10-10-10 into the soil at planting. Three to four weeks after transplanting, side-dress with a nitrogen source like calcium nitrate to keep growth steady. On rich soil extra feeding may be unnecessary; on poor soil, feed young plants with a nitrogen-rich fertiliser before heads begin to form.

Care

Grow in full sun on deep, fertile soil and keep it consistently moist, about 2.5 cm of water weekly. For white types, tie the outer leaves over the curd as it forms to keep it white and sweet. Watch for cabbage caterpillars, aphids and clubroot. Harvest 60-70 days after transplanting, when curds are firm and 15-20 cm across, before the buds separate.