Growing Salsify, also Vegetable oyster

Tragopogon porrifolius : Asteraceae / the daisy family

Jan F M A M J J A S O N Dec
      P P              

(Best months for growing Salsify in USA - Zone 5a regions)

  • P = Sow seed
  • Easy to grow. Sow in garden. Sow seed at a depth approximately three times the diameter of the seed. Best planted at soil temperatures between 10°C and 30°C. (Show °F/in)
  • Space plants: 15 - 20 cm apart
  • Harvest in 14-21 weeks.
  • Compatible with (can grow beside): Beans, Brassicas, Carrots, Celeriac, Endive, Kohl-rabi, Leeks, Lettuce, Alliums, Spinach

Your comments and tips

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01 Feb 08, Ben (Unknown climate)
you can also probably find it in many parks... check in wetter areas
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22 Jan 08, Chris (Unknown climate)
Kings Herbs and Seeds have also got salsify and vegetable oyster
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22 Jan 08, Clare (Unknown climate)
Salsify seeds can be purchased from both Eden Seeds and The Italian Gardener
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16 Jan 08, Daniel (Unknown climate)
I also had salsify as a child and have been looking for 25 years and still havent come across it. I would love to find it as i have a recipe my farther gave me that i'd like to make. Can anyone help me?
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13 Jan 08, Liz (Unknown climate)
Have you tried any of the heritage seeds catalogues? There are some in both New Zealand and Australia. I don't know where you are but an internet search should be able to find you a source for your home area.
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19 Dec 07, Mallee Ward (Unknown climate)
I tried salsify as a child, and loved it. Have not seen or heard of it for 45 years, can one buy seeds?
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Showing 81 - 86 of 86 comments
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Salsify sold in certain vegetables and fruit shops, it costs as much as $90.00 a kilo, The best way get the seeds is to buy a piece of Salsify cut the bottom part off and cook it enjoy yourself, the top part, you can plant it in the garden, wait for it to grow to flowers, harvest the seeds when the flowers dry. The best time to grow is in late August early September.

- Asn

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