Igloo Cauliflower, Heirloom Seeds — Cold-Climate White, Self-Protecting Upright Leaves, Harvest Small or Large | 70 Days

Igloo (Brassica oleracea botrytis ‘Igloo’) is an excellent heirloom cauliflower bred specifically for colder climates and flexible garden management. Dense white heads are protected by upright, dark green leaves that naturally stand up and shield the developing curd from frost and light — reducing the need for manual blanching. One of Igloo’s most practical features: it can be grown at closer spacing for smaller, faster heads, or given more space for larger heads — giving the gardener genuine control over harvest timing and head size. Rich in Vitamin C, Omega-3 fats, and anti-inflammatory compounds. 0.03g / 50+ seeds per packet. 70 days to maturity.

• Botanical name: Brassica oleracea botrytis ‘Igloo’
• Days to maturity: 70 days
• Head: Dense, white, firm — harvest small or large
• Flavor: Mild, sweet
• Leaf habit: Upright dark green leaves — self-protecting; shields curd from frost and light
• Cold tolerance: Excellent — bred for colder climates; Zones 2–8
• Spacing flexibility: Closer for smaller/faster heads; wider for larger heads
• Soil: Moist, well-draining; pH 6.0–7.0
• Temperature: 65°F optimal
• Packet size: 0.03g / 50+ seeds
• Sowing depth: ½ inch
• Plant spacing: 24 inches (standard); closer for mini heads
• Light: Full sun
• USDA Zones: 2–8
• Type: Heirloom, open-pollinated, non-GMO, annual
• Pests: Black rot, cabbage caterpillar, aphids

Built for Cold — The Self-Protecting Upright Leaf Habit

Igloo’s most distinctive feature is its upright, dark green leaf habit. Where most cauliflower varieties have leaves that spread outward and require manual tying to blanch and protect the developing head, Igloo’s leaves stand upright and naturally wrap over the curd — protecting it from frost damage and light exposure simultaneously. This makes Igloo significantly easier to manage in cold-climate gardens where manual blanching is impractical, and reduces the risk of frost damage to the head during late-season growing. The dark green color of the leaves also helps the plant absorb heat in cool conditions, extending the productive season.

Flexible Spacing — Harvest Small or Large

Igloo is one of the few cauliflower varieties that genuinely rewards flexible spacing as a deliberate growing strategy. Plant closer together (12–18 inches) and the plants produce smaller, faster heads — ideal for succession planting, smaller households, or markets that prefer mini cauliflower. Give plants more space (24+ inches) and they develop into full-sized heads. This means a single packet of Igloo seed can be managed two different ways depending on your garden space and harvest goals — more cauliflower faster, or larger heads later.

Nutrition

Igloo Cauliflower is a nutritional standout in the brassica family. A single serving provides the full recommended daily amount of Vitamin C, essential for immune function. Cauliflower is also rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, important for brain development and cardiovascular health, and has documented anti-inflammatory properties. It is a good source of Vitamin K, folate, and choline, and is low in calories and carbohydrates — making it one of the most nutritionally efficient vegetables in the cool-season garden.

In the Kitchen

• Roasting: The standout use — cut into florets or steaks, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper (or any spice blend), roast at 425°F until caramelized and golden
• Cauliflower rice: Pulse florets in a food processor to rice-sized pieces; sauté with oil and seasoning as a low-carb rice substitute
• Low-carb pizza dough: Rice, cook, squeeze dry, and combine with egg and cheese for a cauliflower pizza crust
• Mashed cauliflower: Boil until tender, drain well, and mash with butter and cream as a potato substitute
• Cauliflower steaks: Slice into thick steaks and sear in cast iron with olive oil and garlic; finish in the oven
• Soups & curries: Add florets to creamy soups or Indian-style curries; the mild flavor absorbs spices beautifully

Growing Notes

Start indoors 4–6 weeks before transplant date; harden off before moving outside. Or direct sow ½ inch deep outdoors. Space 24 inches apart for full-sized heads, or closer for smaller mini heads. Full sun; moist, well-draining, fertile soil (pH 6.0–7.0). Cauliflower is a heavy feeder — amend with compost before planting and side-dress with balanced fertilizer mid-season. Keep soil consistently moist. Igloo’s upright leaves provide natural frost and light protection — manual blanching is often unnecessary. Harvest when heads are firm, tight, and fully formed before curds begin to separate. Watch for black rot, cabbage caterpillars, and aphids; use row covers as a preventive measure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to blanch Igloo cauliflower?

Often not — Igloo’s upright dark green leaves naturally stand over the developing curd, providing light protection that keeps the head white without manual tying. In very sunny conditions or if leaves are not fully covering the head, you can tie the outer leaves loosely over the curd when it reaches 2–3 inches across. Check every few days and harvest when firm and tight.

How close can I plant Igloo for mini heads?

Igloo can be planted as close as 12–18 inches apart for smaller, faster heads. At this spacing, plants compete slightly for resources, which limits head size but accelerates maturity. This is a deliberate strategy — not a mistake. For full-sized heads, space 24 inches apart.

Is Igloo good for cold climates?

Yes — Igloo was bred specifically for colder climates (Zones 2–8). The upright leaf habit protects the head from frost, and the variety is more cold-tolerant than standard cauliflower varieties. It is an excellent choice for northern gardens with short growing seasons.

Packed and shipped by Box Garden Seeds LLC — heirloom seeds grown without GMOs, selected for flavor, resilience, and your garden’s success.