Russische Riesen

created by Eike13 at 11.05.2023

Season Overview

Sowing

Harvest

J

F

M

A

M

J

A

S

O

N

D

Description

The garden black salsify (Scorzonera hispanica), also known as "Spanish black salsify" or "true black salsify", belongs to the plant genus black salsify (Scorzonera) in the composite family (Asteraceae).

Non hybrid

Not frost resistant

Growing tips

To prepare the bed, we recommend loosening the soil to a depth of at least 20 centimetres and working some compost into the soil. If you have heavy or very wet soil, it is best to grow on ridges or in a raised bed. Important when sowing: The rod-shaped seeds must not break! Otherwise they will lose their germination capacity. After germination, the young plants can be spaced six to ten centimetres apart in a row. When the plants are young, you can encourage their development by frequently hoeing and weeding. During the main growth phase in summer, there is relatively little for you to do. During longer periods of drought, you should water generously so that root development does not stagnate. It is better to water only once a week so that the soil is soaked through to the deeper layers. Harvesting begins at the end of October, as soon as the leaves begin to fall, and can be extended until April of the following year. Even hardy frosts cannot harm the robust roots, but it is not possible to dig them up when the ground is frozen. With a thick layer of mulch made from straw or autumn leaves, you can ensure that the supply does not run out. To harvest the salsify, it is best to loosen the soil and carefully pull out the stalks. In heavy (clayey) soil, it helps if you dig a deep trench next to the rows and carefully push the roots out in the direction of the trench.