Skirret / Crummock

Plant family

Umbellifers (Apiaceae)

Season Overview

Details

Light requirement

Sunny

Water requirement

Very humid

Soil

Medium (loamy)

Nutrient requirement

Medium

Seeding distance

30 cm

Row spacing

30 cm

Seeding depth

1 cm

Instructions

Description

The sugar root belongs to the umbelliferae (Apiaceae). Therefore, it is related to carrot , parsnip and parsley (Petroselinum crispum). It has nothing to do with licorice. It was very popular in the 16th and 17th centuries. Sugar root is also known by the names sugar root, sweet root, gierlen, görlin, watermark or bell carrot. From the 18th century, the potato and the sugar beet have replaced the sugar root by a better yield. Sugar root is a perennial, cold-resistant plant. It can grow up to 1.50 m high. It does not flower until the 2nd year. Sugar root can be used raw or cooked. They are cylindrical to pointed, grow to about 15-20 cm long, and have a mealy sweet taste. The young leaves of sugar root can be used similar to parsley.

Growing tips

Germination can take up to 35 days at 20-22 ° C. Since the germination capacity is low is sown very densely and then later singled. Can be grown in advance, but does not have to. Can also be sown in August. With 4-5 true leaves, it can be planted out if grown in advance in winter. Has high water needs and should be watered regularly and not allowed to dry out. A layer of mulch can prevent this. Fertilize in between as well. Can be propagated by seed or root sprouts.