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Be sure to plant cauliflower early enough to avoid this cauliflower curd problem. Also, give cauliflower plants ample water and room enough between plants for vigorous growth. Excessive nitrogen may also cause loose heads in not only cauliflower, but broccoli as well. The curd is still edible, just not as attractive.
Similarly one may ask, why are my broccoli heads not tight?
When temperatures ramp up too quickly during the spring months, broccoli plants' response is to open the flower buds prematurely, or bolt. This response to stress is also one of the causes of loose broccoli heads; indeed, it is the major cause. Finally, excessive nitrogen can also cause loose heads on broccoli.
Simply so, how do I make my cauliflower head bigger?
Get a mature cauliflower harvest in less time by starting with young plants from Bonnie Plants®. Keep soil moist and prevent weeds by adding a 3-inch layer of mulch. Feed cauliflower regularly with Miracle-Gro® Shake 'n Feed® Tomato, Fruit & Vegetable Plant Food to encourage the growth of big heads.
Apply Tui Organic Seaweed Plant Tonic to reduce transplant shock and help plants tolerate temperature fluctuations. You can apply this every couple of weeks at a rate of 30-70mls per 9L watering can. Maintain regular even watering. Don't let plants dry out and then give them a good soaking.