Rutabaga grows best when moisture and nutrients stay consistent from seedling stage to full root formation. Because rutabaga takes 80–100 days to mature, keeping the soil evenly moist and feeding at the right times directly influences root size, sweetness, and overall flavor. I’ve grown rutabaga in raised beds, mounded rows, and winter garden plots for…
After more than 30 years growing horseradish in raised beds and open garden rows, I’ve learned that where you plant horseradish matters just as much as how you plant it. This vigorous, deep-rooted perennial thrives when given the right combination of sunlight, soil texture, moisture, and space. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the…
Celeriac is a slow-growing, nutrient-hungry crop, and over decades of gardening in Sonoma Valley, I’ve learned that soil fertility directly impacts root size and flavor. Too little nutrition produces small, fibrous bulbs, while too much nitrogen encourages leafy growth at the expense of the root. Striking the right balance with compost, organic fertilizers, and midseason…
Growing parsnips in containers is absolutely possible—you just need the right depth, the right soil mix, and consistent moisture. While parsnips will always perform best in the open garden or raised beds, I’ve grown many successful container crops in Sonoma Valley, especially when bed space was full. The key is giving parsnips the vertical room…
Rutabaga grows slowly through fall and early winter, which means it needs consistent care to keep weeds down, soil moisture steady, and developing roots protected from cold snaps and pests. Over more than 30 years of growing cool-season brassicas, I’ve found that these simple, steady practices make the difference between stringy, stressed roots and smooth,…
Horseradish is one of the most cold-tolerant root crops I grow, and the timing of planting—whether you garden in a cold-winter region or a mild climate—can make a big difference in root quality, heat, and size. After decades growing horseradish in raised beds and open ground, I’ve learned that planting at the right time ensures…
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