Root crops and bulb crops are favorites in the garden because they provide a supply of fresh vegetables for months. Many can be harvested over an extended period of time, don't take up lots of space in the garden, and store well. Gurney's grows several root crops in its trials gardens and offers the best in terms of garden performance, yields and flavor.
Root Crops for Sale from Gurney's
With our Gardening Guarantee, we ensure that you can trust that we provide top-quality root crop seeds, sets and plants. Our selection is easy to grow varieties that thrive in home gardens.
How to Plant Root Crop Seeds
Sow root crop seeds directly outdoors into well-prepared, loose soil. Plant seeds at the recommended depth for each variety, usually about ¼ to ½ inch deep, and space them accordingly. Avoid starting root crops in seed trays, as they develop best when directly sown.
When to Start Root Crop Seeds?
Most root crops prefer cooler temperatures. Sow seeds in early spring as soon as the soil can be worked. For a fall harvest, plant seeds in late summer. Some varieties, like carrots and beets, can be succession-planted every few weeks for a continuous harvest.
How Long Do Root Crop Seeds Take to Germinate?
Germination times vary by crop. Radish seeds germinate quickly in 3-7 days, while carrots may take 10-20 days. Keep soil consistently moist to encourage even germination.
How to Grow Root Crops
Each root crop will have their own growing guides. To learn more about specific vegetable growing and caring instructions, visit our vegetable care guide page. Here is a general overview of growing root crops:
Soil Preparation: Loose, well-draining soil is essential for proper root development. Remove rocks and clumps to prevent misshapen roots.
Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but avoid overwatering, which can cause rot. Deep watering encourages strong root growth.
Thinning: Once seedlings emerge, thin them to the recommended spacing to prevent overcrowding. Crowded roots can become small or deformed.
Fertilizing: Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which encourage leafy growth over root development. Use balanced or phosphorus-rich fertilizers to promote strong roots. We offer several fertilizers designed for root crops: Potatoes Alive! Fertilizer, Onions Alive! Fertilizer, and Root Crops Alive! Fertilizer
Harvesting: Harvest root crops at their peak size for the best texture and flavor. Some, like carrots and parsnips, sweeten after a light frost.
Are Root Crops Easy to Grow?
Root crops are generally low-maintenance and well-suited for home gardens. They require minimal care beyond proper spacing, consistent watering, and loose soil. Many varieties can be grown in containers for space-saving gardening.
Pest and Insect Control Root Crops?
Consider adding row covers to protect seedlings from pests. You can also practice crop rotation to main good garden hygiene and reduce pest populations. Keep an eye out for these common pests and insects in root crops:
Aphids: Sap-sucking insects that weaken plants and spread disease.
Carrot Rust Fly Larvae: Burrow into carrot roots, causing damage.
Flea Beetles: Small beetles that chew holes in leaves.
Wireworms: Attack underground roots, leaving tunnels and holes.
Root Maggots: Larvae that damage root crops like radishes and turnips.
Slugs and Snails: Feed on tender seedlings and leaves.
