Vegetable Gardening - Sow It Grow It and Feast

Skirret – The Forgotten Vegetable – Herbaceous Perennial

Sium sisarum – Skirret Other common names: crummock, jellico

Skirret, a starchy root vegetable that belongs to the carrot family, was once a popular crop in Europe during Roman times. The Emperor Tiberius was particularly fond of it, and even demanded it as a tribute from the Germans. It was the main root crop eaten in Europe before the potato was introduced. Skirret has a unique taste between a carrot and parsnip and can be found in sweet and savoury dishes. The name “skirret” is derived from a Germanic origin meaning “sugar root”. However, despite its popularity in the past, skirret has faded from gardens and tables over time.

Skirret is a vegetable that is quite easy to grow once you know how. Unlike most of its relatives, it is a perennial plant that produces a bunch of roots, making it easy to lift and replant. Skirret can be grown from seed and produces a single “crown” consisting of several shoot buds around the base of a stem, with a cluster of roots attached. To form a clump made from several crowns, a crown can be divided easily. However, some of the roots in a cluster are not worth picking, so it’s best to dig up the clump, snip off the roots that are worth having, and replant.

Skirret roots can sometimes have a woody core that can’t be softened even after prolonged cooking. This issue is more common in young plants but may disappear as they grow older. It can also be caused by insufficient water during the growing period. Alternatively, it may be due to genetic factors that vary from plant to plant.

Another yield from skirret is the immature flower stems, which have a nice carroty taste when boiled or steamed. They are fairly substantial and produced in reasonable volume, but they are fast-growing and soon harden off, so if you want more than a brief harvest you will have to freeze some.

Skirret can be grown from crowns, but it’s not easy to obtain them. You either have to spend a lot of money or start from seed. Skirret is not easy to grow from seed because it needs a period of winter cold to germinate. If you’re planning to grow Skirret from seed, make sure you source current-year seed in the autumn and stratify it right away. The seed loses viability quickly, like many plants in the Apiaceae family.

Grow Stronger Together Gardening with Companion Planting

In the world of gardening, there’s a practice that has been gaining traction for its natural and effective approach to cultivating healthier and more productive vegetable gardens. It’s called companion planting, and it’s changing the way we grow our food. Understanding and implementing companion planting could be a game-changer.

What Is Companion Planting?

Companion planting is an age-old gardening practice where different plant species are grown close together to benefit one another. This technique not only maximises space but also helps to enhance growth, improve flavour, and protect plants from pests. It’s like having a best friend in your garden who always has your back.

Benefits of Companion Planting

One of the primary benefits of companion planting is pest control. Certain plants naturally repel pests that would otherwise ravage their neighbours. For example, marigolds release a chemical that deters nematodes, while basil can ward off mosquitoes and flies. By strategically placing these plants together, you create a natural barrier.

Another significant advantage is improved plant growth. Some plants release chemicals through their roots that can stimulate faster growth in their companions. Additionally, taller plants can provide shade for sun-sensitive species, and deep-rooted plants can bring up nutrients from lower soil layers, making them available to shallow-rooted neighbours.

Companion planting also promotes biodiversity. Having a variety of plants in your garden creates a more resilient ecosystem, helping to prevent diseases and pest infestations from spreading rapidly. It fosters a balanced environment where beneficial insects thrive and pollinate flowers, leading to a more productive garden.

How Does Companion Planting Work?

Companion planting works through a combination of physical, chemical, and biological interactions between plants. Understanding these interactions can help gardeners make informed decisions about which plants to pair together.

Physical Interactions

Physical interactions involve the structural benefits that plants can provide to one another. For instance, tall plants like corn can act as natural trellises for climbing beans, while low-growing ground covers like nasturtiums can protect the soil from erosion and suppress weed growth.

Chemical Interactions

Chemical interactions occur when plants release substances through their roots or leaves that impact neighbouring plants. These substances can either inhibit or stimulate growth. For example, the roots of sunflowers exude allelopathic chemicals that suppress the growth of nearby plants, while beans release nitrogen into the soil, enriching it for other plants.

Biological Interactions

Biological interactions encompass the relationships between plants and other organisms in the garden, such as insects, fungi, and bacteria. Flowers like calendula attract predatory insects that feed on aphids, while legumes host nitrogen-fixing bacteria in their root nodules, which benefit neighbouring plants by increasing soil fertility.

Aliums (Alliums)

Alliums, including garlic, onions, and leeks, are excellent companions for many vegetables. They can help deter pests such as aphids, spider mites, and carrot flies. Their strong scent confuses and repels these pests, protecting more vulnerable plants.

Garlic

Garlic is a powerhouse in companion planting. It can be planted alongside tomatoes to repel red spider mites and protect strawberries from fungal infections. Additionally, garlic’s sulphur compounds have antifungal properties that benefit many plants.

Onions

Onions are another allium that pairs well with a variety of vegetables. Plant them near carrots to help deter carrot flies, or next to beets to ward off aphids. However, avoid planting onions near legumes, as they can inhibit their growth.

Leeks

Leeks are effective companions for celery and carrots. They can help reduce pests like carrot root fly and leek moth. When planting leeks, ensure they have enough space to grow without crowding their neighbours.

Brassicas (Brassica)

Brassicas, such as cabbage, broccoli, and kale, can benefit greatly from companion planting. They are prone to pests like cabbage worms and aphids, but strategic planting can help mitigate these issues.

Cabbage

Cabbage can be protected from cabbage worms by planting it alongside dill, which attracts beneficial insects that prey on these pests. Additionally, planting cabbage with mint can help deter aphids.

Broccoli

Broccoli benefits from companions like rosemary and sage, which can repel cabbage loopers. Additionally, planting clover as a ground cover around broccoli can improve soil health by fixing nitrogen.

Kale

Kale is a favourite among many gardeners, but it can attract pests like aphids and flea beetles. Planting kale with marigolds or nasturtiums can help keep these pests at bay. Also, companion planting kale with beets can improve growth and flavour.

Cucurbits (Cucurbitaceae)

Cucurbits, including cucumbers, courgettes, and melons, thrive with the right companions. They are prone to pests like cucumber beetles and squash bugs, but companion planting can help address these issues.

Cucumbers

Cucumbers benefit from being planted near radishes, which can deter cucumber beetles. Additionally, planting nasturtiums near cucumbers can help repel aphids and squash bugs.

Courgettes

Courgettes can be protected from squash bugs by planting it alongside marigolds or tansy. These plants emit scents that confuse and repel the pests, keeping your zucchini safe.

Melons

Melons can benefit from companion planting with radishes and marigolds. Radishes deter cucumber beetles, while marigolds repel nematodes. Additionally, planting melons with beans can improve soil fertility.

Leaves and Salad Greens

Leafy greens like lettuce and spinach can benefit from companion planting. They are susceptible to pests like slugs and aphids, but strategic planting can help manage these issues.

Lettuce

Lettuce can be protected from slugs by planting it near chives or garlic. These alliums deter slugs and help keep your lettuce safe. Additionally, planting radishes near lettuce can help deter aphids.

Spinach

Spinach can be protected from pests like aphids and leaf miners by planting it alongside basil or nasturtiums. These companion plants help deter pests and improve the overall health of your spinach.

Legumes (Leguminosae)

Legumes, such as beans and peas, are excellent companions for many vegetables. They fix nitrogen in the soil, enriching it for other plants. Additionally, they can help deter pests like aphids and bean beetles.

Beans

Beans are versatile companions that pair well with a variety of vegetables. Plant them near corn to provide support for climbing beans, or alongside brassicas to improve soil fertility. Avoid planting beans near alliums, as they can inhibit each other’s growth.

Peas

Peas can be planted alongside carrots to help deter carrot flies. Additionally, planting peas with radishes can help deter aphids and improve soil health.

Roots (Root Vegetables)

Root vegetables, including carrots, beets, and radishes, can benefit from companion planting. They are susceptible to pests like root maggots and carrot flies, but strategic planting can help address these issues.

Carrots

Carrots can be protected from carrot flies by planting them alongside onions or leeks. These alliums emit scents that deter the pests and keep your carrots safe. Additionally, planting dill near carrots can attract beneficial insects.

Beets

Beets can benefit from companion planting with brassicas like broccoli or kale. These plants improve soil health and help deter pests. Additionally, planting beets with radishes can help deter aphids.

Radishes

Radishes are excellent companions for cucumbers and melons. They deter cucumber beetles and improve soil health. Additionally, planting radishes near lettuce can help deter aphids.

Solanaceae (Nightshades)

Solanaceae, including tomatoes, peppers, and potatoes, are some of the most popular garden vegetables. They can benefit greatly from companion planting, which helps manage pests and improve growth.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes can be protected from pests like aphids and whiteflies by planting them alongside basil or marigolds. These companion plants emit scents that deter pests and improve the overall health of your tomatoes.

Peppers

Peppers can benefit from companion planting with herbs like basil or oregano. These herbs help deter pests and improve growth. Additionally, planting peppers with beans can improve soil fertility.

Potatoes

Potatoes can be protected from pests like potato beetles by planting them alongside marigolds or nasturtiums. These companion plants help deter pests and improve the overall health of your potatoes.

Companion planting is a powerful tool for any gardener looking to create a healthier, more productive vegetable garden. By understanding the relationships between different plants and strategically placing them together, you can enhance growth, improve flavour and protect your crops from pests. Companion planting offers a natural and effective way to elevate your gardening game.

Start implementing companion planting in your vegetable garden today and watch your plants grow stronger together. Happy gardening!

Further Reading: RHS Three Ways to use Companion Planting

The Essential Guide to Crop Rotation in your Vegetable Garden

Is your kitchen garden looking a bit tired? Crop rotation could be the answer to rejuvenating your small space and boosting your harvests. This age-old technique involves changing the type of crops grown in a particular area each season to improve soil health and reduce pest issues.

What Is Crop Rotation?

Crop rotation is a strategic gardening practice where different crops are planted in a specific sequence over several seasons. This method helps maintain soil fertility and structure, breaks pest and disease cycles and can even improve crop yields.

Benefits of Crop Rotation

Here are some key benefits of implementing crop rotation in your kitchen garden:

Improved Soil Health: Different plants have varying nutrient needs and contribute different organic matter to the soil. Rotating crops ensures a balanced nutrient uptake.

Pest and Disease Control: Many pests and diseases are crop-specific. Rotating crops reduces the likelihood of these problems recurring.

Enhanced Yields: With healthier soil and fewer pests, your plants are more likely to thrive, leading to better harvests.

Steps to Implement Crop Rotation

Step 1: Identify Crop Families

The first step is to group your current crops into families:

Legumes (e.g., peas, beans)

Potatoes (e.g., potatoes, sweet potatoes)

Roots (e.g., carrots, beets)

Brassicas (e.g., cabbage, broccoli)

Salad Greens (e.g., lettuce, spinach)

Step 2: Plan Your Rotation

With a small garden (less than 100 square feet), try a simple four-year rotation plan:

Year 1:

Bed 1: Legumes

Bed 2: Brassicas

Bed 3: Roots

Bed 4: Potatoes

Bed 5: Salad Greens

Year 2:

Bed 1: Brassicas

Bed 2: Roots

Bed 3: Potatoes

Bed 4: Salad Greens

Bed 5: Legumes

Year 3:

Bed 1: Roots

Bed 2: Potatoes

Bed 3: Salad Greens

Bed 4: Legumes

Bed 5: Brassicas

Year 4:

Bed 1: Potatoes

Bed 2: Salad Greens

Bed 3: Legumes

Bed 4: Brassicas

Bed 5: Roots

Step 3: Prepare Your Soil

Loamy soil with good drainage is ideal for most crops. Before planting, enrich your soil with compost or well-rotted manure to provide ample nutrients for the new crops.

Step 4: Plant and Maintain

Follow your rotation plan and plant your crops in the designated beds. Regularly monitor for pests and diseases and keep the soil healthy with organic mulches and amendments.

Step 5: Record and Adjust

Keep a gardening journal to track what you plant each year and any observations about plant health and yield. Use this information to refine your rotation plan over time.

Implementing crop rotation in your small kitchen garden is a smart way to maintain soil health, manage pests and boost your yields. Start planning your crop rotation today to create a more productive and sustainable garden.

Understanding the Perfect Harvest Time

Recognising Ripeness

Knowing when to harvest is crucial for getting the best flavour and nutrition from your vegetables. Root vegetables like carrots and beetroots should be firm and have a vibrant colour. For leafy greens, look for lush and full leaves. Tomatoes should be slightly soft to the touch but still firm enough to hold their shape.

Timing is Everything

Harvesting your vegetables at the right time of day can also make a difference. Early morning is often the best time, as vegetables are most hydrated from the overnight dew. Avoid harvesting in the heat of the day, which can cause wilting and reduce the quality of your produce.

Weather Watch

Paying attention to the weather forecast can help you decide the best times to harvest. For root vegetables, waiting until after a light frost can actually enhance their sweetness. However, ensure that you harvest before any hard frost to avoid damage.

Harvesting Techniques for Different Vegetables

Root Vegetables

Root vegetables like carrots, beetroots and potatoes need to be carefully dug out. Use a garden fork to gently lift them from the ground, being cautious not to damage them. Brush off excess dirt, but don’t wash them until you’re ready to use them to prevent rot.

Leafy Greens

For leafy greens like spinach, kale and lettuce, use sharp scissors or a knife to snip the leaves off just above the base. This encourages new growth and prolongs your harvest season. Always choose the outer leaves first to allow the inner leaves to mature.

Fruiting Vegetables

Tomatoes, cucumbers and peppers need to be picked at their prime. Twist or cut them off the plant to avoid damaging the stems. For tomatoes, consider leaving them on a windowsill to ripen if they haven’t fully matured on the vine.

Storing Your Harvest

Cool and Dark Spaces

Root vegetables like potatoes, carrots and beetroots store best in cool, dark places. A cellar or a cool basement is ideal. Store them in breathable containers like wooden crates or burlap sacks to allow airflow and prevent mould.

Refrigeration

Leafy greens and herbs should be rinsed, dried, and stored in the refrigerator. Use airtight containers or plastic bags with a damp paper towel inside to maintain moisture levels. This keeps them fresh and crisp for longer periods.

Freezing for Longevity

Freezing is an excellent way to preserve vegetables that you can’t consume immediately. Blanch vegetables like beans, peas and corn by boiling them briefly and then plunging them into ice water. Once cooled, place them in airtight bags and freeze.

Fermenting and Pickling

Fermentation Basics

Fermentation is a traditional method of preserving vegetables that also enhances their nutritional value. Vegetables like cabbage (for sauerkraut) and cucumbers (for pickles) can be fermented by submerging them in a saltwater brine and allowing natural bacteria to do their work.

Pickling Steps

Pickling involves preserving vegetables in a vinegar solution. This method is perfect for cucumbers, carrots and onions. Sterilise your jars, pack them with vegetables and a mix of spices, then pour over a hot vinegar solution. Seal the jars and store them in a cool, dark place.

Benefits of Fermented Foods

Fermented foods are great for gut health due to their probiotic content. They also add a tangy flavour to your meals and can be stored for several months, making them a practical method of preservation.

Drying and Dehydrating

Sun Drying

Sun drying is an ancient method of preserving vegetables like tomatoes and herbs. Simply slice your vegetables thinly and lay them out on a mesh screen in a sunny spot. Cover with a fine cloth to keep insects away and turn them regularly.

Using a Dehydrator

A food dehydrator offers a more controlled environment for drying vegetables. This method is suitable for mushrooms, peppers and herbs. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results and store the dried vegetables in airtight containers.

Advantages of Dried Vegetables

Dried vegetables are lightweight and take up less storage space. They can be rehydrated for use in soups, stews and casseroles, ensuring you have access to your garden’s bounty throughout the year.

Creating a Root Cellar

Ideal Conditions

A root cellar is one of the best ways to store a large harvest of root vegetables. The ideal conditions are cool temperatures, high humidity and good ventilation. The temperature should remain between 0°C and 4°C, with a humidity level of around 95%.

Building Tips

If you’re constructing a root cellar, consider using materials that provide good insulation, like straw bales or earth. Ensure that there is adequate ventilation to prevent mould and rot. You can also convert a corner of your basement into a root cellar with proper adjustments.

Maintenance

Check your stored vegetables regularly for signs of spoilage. Remove any that show signs of rot to prevent it from spreading to other vegetables. Proper maintenance will ensure your root cellar remains an effective storage solution.

Using Cold Frames and Cloche

Extending the Season

Cold frames and cloches can help extend the growing season into autumn and even early winter. These structures provide a microclimate that protects young plants from frost and allows for continued growth.

Building a Cold Frame

A cold frame is a low, box-like structure with a transparent lid. You can build one using reclaimed wood and an old window. Place it over your garden bed to protect seedlings and extend the harvest season for leafy greens and herbs.

Using a Cloche

A cloche is a smaller, portable version of a cold frame. It can be placed over individual plants or rows. Use cloches to protect young plants from early frosts or to give warmth-loving plants like tomatoes a longer growing season.

The Benefits of Seasonal Eating

Nutritional Advantages

Eating vegetables in season means you’re consuming them at their peak nutritional value. Seasonal vegetables are fresher, tastier and often grown without the need for excessive pesticides.

Environmental Impact

Seasonal eating reduces the carbon footprint associated with transporting out-of-season produce. It supports local farming and reduces the need for long-haul transportation, which is better for the planet.

Economic Savings

Seasonal vegetables are often more affordable because they are abundant and don’t require expensive growing conditions. Buying in season helps you save money while enjoying the freshest produce available.