2g8 VEGETABLE GARDENING 



spring and also when harvesting in the fall. Although 

 they stand some frost, severe freezing should be guarded 

 against at all times. Figure 74 shows a Long Island field 

 of cauliflower. 



383. Soil. — ^A constant and liberal supply of moisture 

 is the most important factor in a soil; good drainage, 

 however, is also essential. The rich, heavy loams pro- 

 vide excellent conditions, although splendid crops are 

 often produced in light soils. Low, well-drained bot- 

 tom land, even if sandy, produces good results if climatic 

 conditions are satisfactory. 



384. Varieties. — Three varieties of early cauliflower 

 are grown extensively. Dwarf Erfurt is one of the best 

 known ; Snowball is popular in many sections ; and Snow- 

 storm is valued, especially for forcing. 



Seafoam and Dry Weather are important late varieties, 

 regarded particularly valuable for inland sections. Al- 

 giers and Autumn Giant are also planted for the late 

 crop. 



385. Seed. — Most of the cauliflower seed used in the 

 United States is grown in Denmark. For seed produc- 

 tion, still more favorable conditions must prevail than for 

 the development of heads. Certain sections of Denmark, 

 particularly in the vicinity of Copenhagen, furnish these 

 requirements. While the bulk of our seed is imported, 

 the Puget Sound region has been growing some high- 

 grade seed. A great deal of inferior seed is offered to 

 the trade. The best seed ranges in price from $3 to $7 

 an ounce. This amount should be sufficient to start 

 2,500 to 3,000 plants. 



386. Raising early plants. — Early cauliflower plants 

 are started in the same way as early cabbage, but greater 

 care must be exercised. The soil should be sterilized and 

 -iiade only moderately rich. There should be a constant 

 supply of moisture in the beds or flats, but overwatering 



