🫚 Scorzonera

Sowing window (UK)	March to April
Minimum soil temperature	7°C at seed depth
Sowing depth	1 cm
Spacing	30 cm apart
Days to germination	14 days
Days to harvest	150 days
Sowing method	Direct sow outdoors
Frost hardy	Yes
Sun	full-sun
Watering	moderate
Plant family	Asteraceae

When should I sow Scorzonera in the UK?

In the UK, sow Scorzonera from March to April. It is normally sown direct outdoors. Wait until the soil has reached 7°C at seed depth rather than going by the calendar - scorzonera will sit and rot in cold ground.

What soil temperature does Scorzonera need to germinate?

Scorzonera needs a minimum soil temperature of 7°C at seed depth to germinate reliably. Below that, germination is slow and patchy, and seed is more likely to rot than sprout. Measure at around 5cm down, in the morning, rather than trusting air temperature.

How deep and how far apart should I sow Scorzonera?

For Scorzonera, sow it 1cm deep and space plants 30cm apart.

How long does Scorzonera take to grow?

Scorzonera takes roughly 150 days from sowing to harvest. Seed usually germinates in about 14 days.

Is Scorzonera frost hardy?

Yes. Scorzonera is frost hardy and will stand through UK frosts, so it can be left out over winter in most of the country.

Sowing data cross-checked against RHS growing guides and UK seed-merchant catalogues. Soil temperatures are the minimum for reliable germination, measured at seed depth.