This specialty market item attracts attention at your farm market. Unlike older purple types, Graffiti produces a true cauliflower head on large plants. The deep purple color along with its dark green leaves makes for a striking combination. Works best for fall planting but can also be grown in spring. Color turns a blue-purple when cooked. Adapted to cool coastal climates and Eastern and Mid States
BEST TO START INDOORS Start seeds 4 to 5 weeks before last expected frost. Sow 1 inch apart in a container of seed starting mix and cover 1/4 inch deep. Keep moist but not soggy. Provide a strong light source until seedlings are ready to plant out. When seedlings have 2 to 3 sets of true leaves, acclimate to outdoor conditions and transplant 12 to 18 inches apart into rich, well-drained soil in full sun. In mild winter climates, sow again in mid-summer for a fall crop.
TO START OUTDOORS About 4 to 6 weeks before last frost, sow groups of 2 to 3 seeds 12 to 18 inches apart and 1/4 inch deep in well-drained, fertile soil in full sun. Tend carefully and thin to 1 strong seedling per group when several inches tall. Proper thinning is critical for successful heads.
GROWING NOTES Fertilize growing cauliflower every three weeks and keep well weeded and watered to provide the rapid growth cauliflower requires to form good heads. Purple Crush’s outer wrapper leaves help shield its heads from sun discoloration. Harvest the deep purple heads promptly when fully filled out. Nontoxic “BT” (Bacillus thuringiensis) products work well to control caterpillar pests.
HARVEST AND USE Enjoy Purple Crush in salads, with dips, or break into florets and lightly steam or toss with olive oil and oven roast till tender. Remember: garden fresh cauliflower cooks more quickly than store-bought!
