Salsifi (Scorsonera)

J F M A M J J A S O N D
Sowing outdoors
Harvest

How do I sow salsify (scorsonera) outdoors?

To sow salsify (scorsonera) outdoors, we recommend waiting until spring for milder temperatures. Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Before sowing, loosen the soil by weeding and working it with a hoe to make it fine and light.

Then sow the salsifi seeds about 3-4 cm apart, spacing them 20-25 cm between rows. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and pack lightly. Water regularly, but moderately, to keep the soil moist without soaking.

Beware of weeds and slugs, which can damage young plants. You can use natural solutions to keep them away, such as crushed eggshells. It's also advisable to mulch around the plants to limit weed growth and conserve soil moisture.

Exposure
Full Sun
Sowing Depth
1 cm
Plant Spacing
10 cm
Row Spacing
20 cm
Germination Time
15 days
Germination Temperature
15 °C
Soil Type
Humus-rich
Soil pH Preference
Neutral

How do I harvest salsify?

Salsifi, also known as scorsonera, is harvested in autumn or early winter. To harvest it, it is important to prepare the soil well beforehand to make it easier to extract the roots. It's best to use a spading fork rather than a spade to avoid damaging the roots.

Once the salsifi has been dug up, it is advisable to clean it quickly to remove soil and impurities. Avoid leaving it to dry in the sun for too long, as it could dry out and lose flavour.

Store salsifi roots in a cool, dark place, preferably in a sand tray or paper bag. They generally keep for several weeks, or even a few months, if storage conditions are optimal.

Seed Storage
4 years
Propagation
Sowing
Salsifi (Scorsonera)
Characteristics
  • Lifecycle : Annual
  • Exposure : Full Sun
  • Frost Hardiness : Frost Resistant
  • Cultivation Difficulty : Easy
  • Adult Height : 60 cm
Sowing & Planting
  • Sowing Depth : 1 cm
  • Plant Spacing : 10 cm
  • Row Spacing : 20 cm
Maintenance
  • Maintenance : Moderate
  • Water Requirements : Moderate