Cauliflower-Crust Pizza

Cauliflower

• Sow seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost, or direct sow outdoors after the danger of frost has passed.
• Plant in full sun (at least 6 hours) and well-draining soil rich in organic matter.
• Maintain consistent moisture, especially as heads form, to prevent bolting and ensure tender growth.

Oregano

• Plant oregano from cuttings or small plants in spring, or sow seeds directly after the last frost.
• Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil; oregano thrives in dry, lean conditions and dislikes wet feet.
• Oregano is excellent for containers, requiring minimal care once established.

Peppers

• Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost date, transplanting seedlings after all danger of frost is past.
• Provide full sun (6-8 hours daily) and rich, well-draining soil; peppers thrive in warm conditions.
• Support taller pepper plants with stakes or cages to prevent branches from breaking under the weight of fruit.

Rocket

• Sow seeds directly every 2-3 weeks from early spring to late autumn for a continuous harvest.
• Plant in a location with full sun in cooler weather or partial shade in hot climates to prevent bolting.
• Keep the soil consistently moist to encourage tender leaves and prevent bitterness.

Cherry Tomatoes

• Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost, transplanting seedlings after all danger of frost has passed.
• Plant in full sun (at least 6-8 hours) and rich, well-draining soil; provide good air circulation.
• Provide sturdy stakes or cages early on to support the vigorous growth and heavy fruit set of cherry tomato plants.

• Use floating row covers for cauliflower to protect against cabbage worms and other brassica pests.

• Inspect pepper and tomato plants regularly for aphids and hornworms, hand-picking them off or using organic sprays.

• Deter slugs and snails from rocket leaves with a barrier of crushed eggshells or diatomaceous earth around plants.

Cauliflower

• Harvest when the head is firm, white, and 6-8 inches in diameter, before the curds begin to separate.
• Cut the main stalk just below the head, leaving a few protective leaves attached.

Oregano

• Snip stems and leaves as needed once the plant is established, ideally before it flowers for the best flavor.
• Harvest up to one-third of the plant at a time to encourage bushy growth.

Peppers

• Pick peppers when they reach their mature size and desired color, using a sharp knife or shears.
• Harvest frequently to encourage more fruit production throughout the growing season.

Rocket

• Harvest outer leaves once they are a few inches long, using the cut-and-come-again method.
• Pick frequently to keep leaves tender; older leaves can become spicy and bitter, especially in heat.

Cherry Tomatoes

• Harvest cherry tomatoes when they are fully colored and feel slightly soft to the touch.
• Pick regularly to encourage the plant to produce more fruit.