When To Sow: May-June Harvest: September-February
Germination: 7-14 days Full Sun
Starting Indoors: Not recommended. Does not transplant well.
Direct Seeding: Sow seeds thinly in pre-watered, shallow rows spaced 40cm (16”) between rows. Lightly cover with soil. The seeds should germinate within a week to 10 days. When large enough to handle, thin out the seedlings until they are about 25cm (10”) apart. Keep soil moist until seedlings are established. Plants should reach maturity 6 months after planting.
Swedes are a brassica and are very prone to club root, so make sure that your soil is not too acidic. The ideal pH is between 7.0 and 7.4. Best results are usually achieved from a May sowing.
Maintenance
Swedes are a long-term crop and will take up to 6 months to mature. Keep the soil moist and weed free throughout. (Lack of water can lead to cracking, corky growth, and a bitter taste.)
Mulch before the onset of cold weather.
Harvesting
Swedes are ready to eat once they’re large enough to use, but they’ll taste sweeter if you wait until the first frost or two of the season. Since they’re exceptionally winter hardy, they can be left in the ground until needed.
Companion Planting
Swedes grow well with beans, celery, coriander, cucumber, lettuce, and potatoes. Avoid strawberries.