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Vegetables

Salsify (Oyster Plant)

Tragopogon porrifolius

Salsify, also known as oyster plant, is a biennial herbaceous plant cultivated for its edible taproot, which has a flavor reminiscent of oysters. The plant features long, narrow leaves and produces yellow flowers. It is valued for its nutritional content and is often used in soups, stews, and as a vegetable side dish.

Calculate System for Salsify (Oyster Plant)
400.00–600.00mm
Water Need
120 days
Season
30.00–60.00cm
Root Depth
25,000 kg/ha
Yield
20,000
Plants/ha

Growth Stages

Season: Mar – Aug (120 days)

Initial
Kc 0.400
30 days
Development
Kc 0.700
40 days
Mid-Season
Kc 1.000
60 days
Late
Kc 0.800
30 days

Salsify is typically grown as an annual, and it is important to harvest the roots before they become woody. Varieties include the common salsify and black salsify, which have slightly different flavors and growth habits.

Water Requirements

Season Total: 400.00600.00 mm
Water Stress Sensitivity: High
Salt Tolerance: Moderate
Water Productivity: 15.500 kg/m³

Recommended Methods

Drip Irrigation90.00%Fixed Sprinkler70.00%

Soil Compatibility

Optimal pH range: 6.0 – 7.5

Sandy Loam
AWC100.00mm/m
Drainagegood
Drainage: Well-drained soils preferred
Organic Matter: 2.00%
Soil should be loose and well-aerated to allow for deep root growth. Incorporating organic matter can improve soil structure and fertility.

Climate Compatibility

Temperature range: 15.0°C – 30.0°C

Temperate Continental
ETo: 1.006.00 mm/day
Temp: -20.0°C – 30.0°C
Frost: high
Mediterranean
ETo: 3.007.00 mm/day
Temp: 5.0°C – 35.0°C
Frost: low
Frost Tolerance: Low frost tolerance
Heat Tolerance: Moderate heat tolerance
Salsify is sensitive to frost, so it is important to protect young plants from late spring frosts. It thrives in areas with moderate rainfall.

Planting Layout

100.00cm
Row Spacing
50.00cm
Plant Spacing
20,000
Plants per ha

Nutrient Requirements (kg/ha)

Nitrogen (N)150 kg/ha
Phosphorus (P)60 kg/ha
Potassium (K)180 kg/ha
40
Calcium (Ca) kg/ha
25
Magnesium (Mg) kg/ha
20
Sulfur (S) kg/ha
Schedule: Apply nitrogen in 3 splits during growing season
Organic Matter: 2-3% organic matter recommended

Yield Information

25,000
kg/ha
2.500
kg/plant
0.450
Harvest Index
Quality Factors: Size, color, sugar content

Design Your Salsify (Oyster Plant) Irrigation System

Use our free calculators to plan water requirements, spacing, and system costs for your Salsify (Oyster Plant) field.

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Related Guides

Introduction to Salsify (Oyster Plant) and its cultivation and irrigation

Salsify, also known as Oyster Plant, is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that is gaining popularity among farmers and consumers alike. Its unique flavor and texture make it a great addition to various culinary dishes. In this article, we will explore the benefits of growing Salsify economically and provide…

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