Salsify Care in Pots is not difficult if you follow the right directions. Unlock the secrets to successful gardening for this root vegetable.
If you want to savor the unique taste of Tragopogon Porrifolius, you may find it challenging to purchase it in stores. However, you can even grow it in containers. Read on to learn Salsify Care in Pots in this informative post.
Common Names: Jack Go To Bed, Oyster Plant, Jerusalem Star, Purple Salsify, Purple Goat’s Beard, Vegetable Oyster Plant
Botanical Name: Tragopogon porrifolius
USDA Zones: 4-8
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What is Salsify?
Salsify (Tragopogon Porrifolius), the genus name of a wildflower, has its origin in two Greek words, “tragos” meaning goat, and “pogon” meaning beard, which refers to the feathery hairs produced when the plant produces fruit. The common name “Oyster Plant” comes from the belief that the flavor of the roots tastes like oysters, while “Purple Goat’s Beard” refers to the flower’s color and the derivation of the genus name.
This biennial wildflower, commonly popular as “Salsify,” is an ornamental plant with an edible carrot-like off-white root. It belongs to the Asteraceae or Aster family and is native to various regions such as the Canary Islands, parts of Europe, North Africa, and Saudi Arabia.
Tragopogon Porrifolius has herbal properties, and young shoots are used, like asparagus.
When to Plant Salsify
To ensure optimal growth of salsify, sow the seeds 2 weeks before the last expected frost during spring when the soil temperature reaches about 40°F (4.4°C). In regions with mild winters, sowing this plant in early fall will guarantee a winter harvest.
Propagating Salsify in Pots
- To plant Tragopogon Porrifolius in containers, ensure that the pots are at least 10 inches or deeper that accommodate long roots.
- Keep the pots in a location with full sun exposure.
- The soil has to be rich in organic matter. You can blend it with all-purpose fertilizer a week before sowing.
- Sow the seeds ½ inch (12mm) deep and ½ inch apart.
- Salsify does well with a soil pH of 6.0 to 6.8.
- It typically takes between 7 to 20 days to sprout.
- Thin out successful seedlings, ensuring that they stand approximately 3 to 4 inches (7-10cm) apart.
- Salsify requires between 120 to 150 days to reach maturity and is best harvested during cooler weather conditions.
- For fall harvesting, wait until after the first freeze.
- If growing outdoors, avoid allowing salsify to sit in the garden after temperatures rise above 85°F (29°C), as this can cause the roots to become stringy and fibrous.
Best Salsify Varieties
- Long Black
- Scorobianca
- Mammoth
- Sandwich Island
Ideal Growing Conditions for Pots
Location
Salsify appreciates a sunny location, so keep your pots accordingly.
Soil
For growing salsify in pots, use light, well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 6.8.
Water
For young seedlings, make sure to water them regularly, especially when conditions are dry. After salsify matures, water the plants only during long dry spells to prevent root splitting.
However, when growing salsify in a container, make sure to water it regularly throughout the entire growing season.
Read: Turnips Growing and Care in Pots
Salsify Care in Pots
Fertilizer
Salsify Care in Pots is easy as this root vegetable doesn’t need fertilization. Instead, just prepare the soil with an all-purpose fertilizer one week prior to sowing.
Pests and Diseases
It is important to protect salsify seedlings and young plants from slugs and snails.
Although this plant is generally resistant to pests and diseases, there is a possibility of white rust and powdery mildew.
Note: Outdoors, the roots may be consumed by mice and voles during the winter season.
Salsify Companion Plants
Other root crops like sweet potatoes, carrots, rutabaga, potatoes, and turnips are good companion plants for Tragopogon Porrifolius.
Harvesting Salsify
Harvest salsify roots from late September when they are 12 inches long. To avoid damaging the roots, carefully lift them by hand or with a spading fork. It typically takes 120 to 150 days for the roots to mature and be ready for harvest.
Starting from fall and onwards, protect the top of the roots from frost by covering them with a layer of straw or fleece.
Read: Okra Growing and Care in Pots
Storing and Preserving Salsify
The roots can withstand freezing temperatures, so you can leave them in a pot until needed. However, it’s important to note that the longer the roots stay in the ground, the less they will taste like oysters.
Tragopogon Porrifolius can be stored in a refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 weeks, but make sure to remove the tops before storing. For longer storage, roots can be kept in a cold and moist environment for 2 to 4 months.
Eating Salsify
- Tragopogon Porrifolius is a versatile plant that can be used as a substitute for parsnips in recipes.
- Although its taste is subtle, it is delightful when steamed and served with melted butter.
- For oyster-like flavor, steam the roots, peel them, and serve with butter as a delectable side dish.
- While the plant is entirely edible, its roots and leaves taste best before the flowers bloom.
- The flowering shoots are also delicious and can be consumed raw or cooked, much like asparagus.
- Additionally, the flowers make a delightful addition to salads.
Nutritional Value of Salsify
Tragopogon Porrifolius comprises around 77% water, with the remaining 19% being carbohydrates and 3% protein. When consumed, it provides a good source of fiber, vitamin C, potassium, and manganese.