I ordered some cauliflower plants and they want to wait until October 1st to send them to me. I found out it takes 5 to 6 weeks to grow. How does this work since it will be mid November before I can harvest it? I want to plant in mid September. Can this be done? Is there any special care I need to do to keep my plants safe? Thank you.
Cauliflower grows better in cooler temps and will actually produce more of a crop in fall. October planting can be done but only if you can ensure that temps don't dip too low before they reach maturity. Otherwise, you may need to add some protection, like a row cover. However, you can also plant them in September, which would likely be better in your area. Either way, they should do well.
So what my question is: can you eat the green heads or not?
They are fine to eat regardless of blanching. Blanching is done just to produce a milder tasting and more tender head.
We have cauliflower, kale, sugar peas, chard, and broccoli.
I suggest planting the seed you mentioned in a greenhouse. Peas are difficult to transsplant, they should be direct sown into the ground. Maybe the kale too, depending on your usual weather patterns. (Here in 6b, we've experienced 68* with sun yesterday, and expecting a high of 35* tomorrow...if 40 mph winds don't blow us away tonight!) Broccoli chard and cauloflower can certainally be grown in cool temps, but I would keep minimum temperatures closer to 45*. Even cool weather plants can be adversely affected by temps too low as young seedlings.
After I cut the head of the cauliflower plant, it started to produce smaller plants from around the base or from the rootball. Is this normal, or am I mistaken?
Although this isn't a common occurance, it is concieveable that it could and would happen occasionally.
Why is cauliflower flowering?
It's called bolting. This happens when it hasn't been picked. Sometimes a trigger will start the bloom initiation before the brassica is ready for harvest, and it blooms early.
My cauliflower head has tiny purple circles on it. Is it still okay to eat?
Yes, is should be ok. Some cauliflowers grow slightly purple under cooler conditions. It will not harm you.
Why are my cauliflour plants drooping, almost looks like they are dying? I planted them a week ago. Our weather has not been too cold or warm - lows in the upper 30s and lower 40s and highs in upper 50 and 60s.
It sounds like they are suffering from transplant shock. This article will help you: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/environmental/learn-how-to-avoid-and-repair-transplant-shock-in-plants.htm