London - Heard a strange creaking noise? Don’t worry, there’s probably just a field full of cauliflowers growing nearby.
Still confused? It’s all down to a bizarre annual phenomenon known as “cauliflower creak” – which farmers say could be the loudest heard in Britain for 24 years this weekend.
The vegetable grows so fast over such a short period at this time of year that it makes a noise as its florets rub together.
And the changeable weather of recent weeks has created the perfect conditions for a bigger growth than normal – a predicted 3cm a day this weekend.
This rapid growth will also mean sweeter-tasting cauliflowers in the shops, according to the supermarket Morrisons.
Cornwall farmer David Simmons said the distinctive noise could be at its loudest since 1991, adding: “It’s rare for the cauliflower creak to be so pronounced.
“This weekend’s warmer nights combined with long daylight hours means the crop will come to harvest in record time.”
Daily Mail