UZTI7ERSIT7 



INTEODUCTION. 



The cauliflower is one of the minor vegetables 

 which is now attracting more than ordinary atten- 

 tion in this country, and being grown with remark- 

 able success and profit in a few localities which 

 have been found to be particularly adapted to it. 

 With most of our gardeners, however, it is still 

 considered a very uncertain and unprofitable crop. 

 This is due not only to the peculiar requirements 

 of the cauliflower as to soil and climate, but also to 

 the want of familiarity on the part of most Ameri- 

 can gardeners with modern varieties and with 

 methods of cultivation adapted to our climate. 



For a number of years, while engaged in market 

 gardening and fruit growing in Western Michigan, 

 the writer made a specialty of raising cauliflowers 

 for the Grand Rapids and Chicago markets, planting 

 from three to five acres a year. During this time 

 most of the varieties offered by American seedsmen 

 were tested, and the best methods of cultivation 

 sought. On the whole, the cauliflower crop was 

 found more profitable than any other, with the 

 possible exception of peaches. There were partial 

 failures, but these were due to causes which might 



