Skirret (Sium sisarum)

Skirret

Also known as: Crummock

Skirret has a cluster of bright white, sweetish, somewhat aromatic roots, each approximately 15 to 20 cm in length. These are used as a vegetable in the same manner as the common salsify, black salsify and the parsnip.

Scientific classification

Species

Skirret (Sium sisarum)

Carrots, ivies and allies

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Mid fall, Late fall

Harvest Time

1 m

Plant Height

30 cm

Spread

Green, Gray

Leaf Color

Pink, Cream, Purple

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Skirret

Distribution of Skirret

Distribution Map

Skirret, a plant with its roots in temperate regions of Eastern Europe, now finds itself extended into various parts of Central and Southern Europe. While it enjoys broad naturalization beyond its native habitat, the plant is also cultivated in regions spreading across the continent.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Care Guide for Skirret

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Skirret thrives in moist soil conditions, preferring weekly watering without waterlogging. It is mainly grown outdoors to benefit from natural rainfall, requiring well-draining yet moisture-retentive soil during its active growing season, mirroring its native habitat near water bodies.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, skirret requires balanced nutrition fertilizers applied quarterly. This promotes robust roots and bountiful harvests. Adjust fertilizer amounts seasonally, reducing post-harvest. Always water soil prior to application to prevent root burn. With proper care, skirret flourishes, yielding sweet, crisp roots.

Pruning: Skirret is a herbaceous perennial valued for its edible roots. Prune in early to late spring to enhance growth and maintain tidiness. Regularly removing dead stems and excess growth improves air circulation, reducing disease risk, thus ensuring a robust and productive season.

Propagation: Skirret is a perennial vegetable with sweet, parsnip-like roots. Propagation through division involves separating root clusters, ensuring each has a crown part. It thrives in fertile, well-drained soil and needs regular watering, with balanced root and shoot division crucial for successful plant establishment.

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Common Pests & Diseases

Leaf beetle Whitefly Scale insect Dark blotch Thrips Leaf wilting Leaf rot Flower wilting Aphid Flower withering Weevil Spider mite Caterpillar Dodder Mealybug Leafhopper

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