how long will cauliflowers stand?

[strawberry1]

There are only two of us and so I grew 4 medallion. They have produced superb large tight heads but all at once. This is the first time I have grown overwintered caulis in 30+ years so am very happy but glad I only grew 4. We have eaten 3 but I am wondering if we are unnecessarily rushing through them. I have bent leaves over the curd and am wondering if  I should be picking that last one sooner or later

[strawberry1]

[kt.]

Their ability to stand depends on the time of year, temperatures and weather playing a crucial role.  In summer, they will stand 5-10 days depending on variety.  In winter they may stand longer due to colder temperatures.  My Christmas caulis stood for 4-5 weeks.  You can get varieties that claim to be slow to bolt but I cannot vouch for these. 

[strawberry1]

I picked it yesterday and the head was still very good, just starting slightly to open a little at the base. I would say that all in all I got 3 weeks from these 4 caulis, so lots of lovely cauilflower cheese and they filled a gap very well. They had very large heads, although I picked the first one while it was medium rather than v large. I am debating now re next year as we make fantastic sauerkraut and tbh big tight cabbages last us longer as a veg,  I may just do 2 cauli next year as our allotment is not large