Cauliflowers need an extremely rich soil and even then it is unlikely you will get the large curds that you see on caulis. in the supermarket. We've basically given up on them and calabrese as they don't do well for us.

Dry conditions could be to blame but certainly one of the most difficult veggies to grow well. Why not give green or purple sprouting broccolli a go next year? Much tastier.

I agree!

Bolting cauliflower - the most difficult to grow! There are various types covering spring, summer and winter. Which type are you querying? Any change in watering for instance, a dry spot followed by a downpour, or vice versa, can result in bolting. The plant basically panics and goes to seed. They need regularity in everything, right from the start. So if you water weekly to start, you need to continue watering weekly etc. I gave up with them three years ago, despite trying to temperature/water control with covers. If you are successful on a non-commercial basis, please please let us know how, or patent it first!!!

Lol - agree Avkq!

In my experience, rich, slightly alkaline soil, even watering--mulches help a lot with that--and the right variety and planting date for your area, are critical for success with cauliflower. Even when all that is right, though, a spell of unusually warm weather at the wrong time can turn your baby curds to "rice in an eyeblink. It's a veggie that could be considered challenging everywhere but certain Mediterranean climates. They grow a lot in Israel, I understand.

Yes, I shop at Lidl here regularly, and they all come from either spain or israel ... I discovered it is cheaper and less hassle to buy them from 'israel', than grow my own. Sad for the air-miles but I do like cauliflower cheese. Can't help wondering how long I will be able to appreciate this for ... recession etc