Scorzonera (approximately 120 days), also called Black Salsify or Spanish Salsify, closely resembles salsify in root shape and internal root color, but is not closely related taxonomically. The root is black externally and the leaves spiny. The root is considered to be finer textured, and remains so further into the winter. The leaves are much broader or oblong, and can also be used as a salad green. The plant is more vigorous. Cultural practices for both vegetables are very similar.

VARIETIES

Varieties have not been evaluated at Oregon State University. The following are suggested for trial:

Salsify: Mammoth Sandwich Island, French Blue Flowered.

Scorzonera: Duplex, Flandria, Long Black Rooted, Giant Black Russian.

SOILS

Use only deep, well-drained, friable soils, that have good water-holding capacity, are uniform to a depth of 18-24 inches, and can be loosened to this depth. This is important for the development of long, straight roots. Sandy loams and muck soils are ideal since harvest can extend into the rainy fall season and such soils allow harvest shortly after rain. A pH of 6.0 or above is preferred.

SEED AND SEED TREATMENT

Seeds of both vegetables number 2000-2500 per ounce. Use only quality seed that has been tested and treated recently.

SEEDING

Plant both vegetables in rows 10-15 inches apart and 1-2 inches in the row. Uniformity in the row is very important for uniformly shaped roots.

FERTILIZER

A soil test is the most accurate guide to fertilizer requirements. The following are general guidelines. Broadcast and disc, or band, at time of planting the following:

Nitrogen: 30-50 (N) 30-50 lb/acre. Sidedress with 25-35 lb N/acre about 6 weeks after seeding. Add additional N as needed.

Phosphate: 145-155 (P2O5) lb/acre.

Potash: 110-130 (K2O) lb/acre, sulfate form

HARVESTING AND STORAGE (Quoted or modified from USDA Ag. Handbook 66 and other sources)

Roots may be dug, topped, and stored in cold storage. They may also be left in the ground until needed.

Store roots at 32 F and 95 to 98% relative humidity. Topped salsify has the same storage requirements as topped carrots. High relative humidity is a must, since the long slender roots are highly sensitive to shriveling from moisture loss. Losses from shrivel can be minimized if perforated film crate liners are used. The roots are not injured by slight freezing. They should not be handled, or carefully handled while frozen. Under the conditions specified, they should keep for 2 to 4 months.

Scorzonera or black salsify has similar storage requirements. Extended storage is reported to be possible with storage in a controlled atmosphere of 3 percent oxygen and 3 percent carbon dioxide at 32 F.

PACKAGING

Roots may be packaged in 25-lb film bags, or 12-lb cartons holding 12 cello bags, 1 lb each.

DISEASE AND WEED CONTROL FOR SALSIFY AND SCORZONERA

THE PESTICIDES LISTED BELOW, TAKEN FROM THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST PEST CONTROL HANDBOOKS ARE FOR INFORMATION ONLY. BECAUSE OF CONSTANTLY CHANGING LABELS, LAWS, AND REGULATIONS, OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY CAN ASSUME NO LIABILITY FOR THE CONSEQUENCES OF USE OF CHEMICALS SUGGESTED HERE. IN ALL CASES, READ AND FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS AND PRECAUTIONARY STATEMENTS ON THE SPECIFIC PESTICIDE PRODUCT LABEL.

USE PESTICIDES SAFELY!

Wear protective clothing and safety devices as recommended on the label. Bathe or shower after each use.

Read the pesticide label--even if you've used the pesticide before. Follow closely the instructions on the label (and any other directions you have).

Be cautious when you apply pesticides. Know your legal responsibility as a pesticide applicator. You may be liable for injury or damage resulting from pesticide use.

Note that Oregon law requires reporting of agricultural pesticide use to the Oregon Dept. of Agriculture through its on-line PURS system.

WEED CONTROL

The Pacific Northwest Weed Control Handbook has no control entries for this crop. Cultivate as often as necessary when weeds are small. Proper cultivation, field selection and rotations can reduce or eliminate the need for chemical weed control.

DISEASE CONTROL

The Pacific Northwest Disease Control Handbook has no control entries for this crop. Fungicides registered, but not evaluated by University personnel in the Pacific Northwest, include Ridomil and Telone. Consult labels for rates, restrictions, and diseases controlled.

Proper rotations, field selection, sanitation, spacings, fertilizer and irrigation practices can reduce the risk of many diseases. Fields can be tested for presence of harmful nematodes. Using seed from reputable sources reduces risk from "seedborne" diseases.