Salsify Seeds

Useful gardening information

Grow salsify for its unique, oyster-like flavor and versatility as a root vegetable substitute for potatoes and other root crops, as it's relatively easy to grow and offers an unusual culinary experience. Salsify is also a non-toxic, nutrient-rich plant that can improve bone and cognitive health and adds an interesting, "forgotten" element to a garden.

The roots have a delicious oyster-like flavor and can be used in an oyster soup. Salsify likes a rich, deep-spaded, light garden soil. Sow in rows early in the spring. Space 24 inches apart. Sow seed 1/2 inch deep, and 2 to 3 seeds to the inch. Thin out the plants to stand 6 to 8 inches apart in the row.

They take a long time to germinate - up to 21 days. Since they are a root crop, they prefer deep, stone-free soil. The seeds frequently fail if they are not kept consistently wet until the seedlings are established. Harvest in 16 to 25 weeks. The roots are hardy and can be left in the ground until April. As a biennial salsify flowers and goes to seed the the second year.

Informative articles found on the web:

How to grow Salsify
Salsify Recipes

VH557 Mammoth Sandwich Island

Mammoth Sandwich Island Salsify is an heirloom root vegetable known for its long, carrot-like, off-white roots that have a distinct oyster-like flavor, earning it the nickname "vegetable oyster" or "oyster plant". A cool-weather crop, it thrives in deep, well-drained soil and full sun, can be left in the ground to overwinter for a spring harvest, and offers edible flowers and leaves. The versatile roots are used in stews, cream sauces, or can be sliced and fried to enhance their unique flavor.

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