Swede

These easy to grow are closely related to Turnips (the name is an abbreviation of Swedish Turnip). The flesh is yellow and is the taste is milder and sweeter. The newer varieties are a great improvement on the old ones that were really only grown for cattle feed.

Swedes are members of the Brassica family and they need the same soil conditions, a firm, well drained, medium to heavy soil that is not too rich. A site that has been used for a previous crop that has been manured is ideal. They also need a pH of 6.5 - 7.0, so it is wise to check this and apply lime if necessary. Apply a general fertiliser at the rate of 2- 3oz per square yard before planting.

Sow the seed thinly in a shallow seed drill, in late spring, and thin to 12" apart. Leave 18" between the rows.

If Clubroot tends to be a problem, the seeds can also be sown in pots or trays in the greenhouse or coldframe and when the seedlings have formed two leaves transplant to 3" cell trays. Grow on until they are 3" - 4" inches tall and then transplant them to the final positions. This gives the plant chance to get a good root system before being exposed to the virus. Use one of the commercial Clubroot dips when planting out. The Variety 'Marion' is claimed to be resistant to Clubroot and Mildew.

It is also a good idea to treat the ground when planting with a soil pest killer such as Chlorophos as a prevention against soil pests.

In milder areas the roots can be left in the ground until needed but this can lead to disease and damage by slugs. It is probably better to lift them, twist the tops off and store in boxes of peat or Vermiculite.

Swedes are subject to all the usual Brassica pests and diseases such as Club root, Flea Beetles, Mildew and Soft rot. (See relevant Pests or Diseases sections)

© copyright 1999, P. A. Owen