Growing and Enjoying Swedes: A Comprehensive Guide for Seventh Graders
Introduction
Swedes, also known as rutabagas, are delicious and nutritious root vegetables that are easy to grow at home. They are a great source of vitamins and minerals, and they can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes. In this article, we will provide you with all the information you need to grow and care for swedes, from planting to harvest.
Choosing the Right Variety
There are many different varieties of swedes available, so it is important to choose one that is well-suited to your climate and soil conditions. If you want to grow large swedes for winter cropping, choose a variety that is resistant to becoming bitter and woody.
Planting Swedes
- When to Plant: Swedes can be planted in the spring or early summer, depending on your climate.
- Where to Plant: Swedes prefer to grow in moist, well-drained soil in a sunny location.
- How to Plant: Sow seeds directly in the ground or start them off indoors in seed trays. If planting seeds directly in the ground, sow them about 5cm apart and 2cm deep.
Caring for Swedes
- Watering: Swedes need regular watering, especially during dry periods.
- Fertilizing: Fertilize swedes with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks.
- Weeding: Keep the area around your swedes weed-free to prevent competition for nutrients and water.
- Pest and Disease Control: Swedes can be susceptible to pests such as cabbage root fly and cabbage white caterpillars. Protect your crops with horticultural netting or companion planting with onions or nasturtiums.
Harvesting Swedes
- When to Harvest: Swedes can be harvested as baby vegetables or left to grow and crop from autumn onwards.
- How to Harvest: To harvest baby swedes, gently push a garden fork into the soil and lift the whole plant out. To harvest mature swedes, use a spade to dig around the plant and then lift it out of the ground.
Storing Swedes
- Swedes can be stored in a cool, dark place for several months.
- To store swedes, remove the leaves and any damaged roots. Then, place the swedes in a single layer in a cardboard box or plastic bag.
Cooking Swedes
Swedes can be used in a variety of dishes, such as:
- Mashed swedes
- Roasted swedes
- Swede soup
- Swede gnocchi
Conclusion
Growing and caring for swedes is easy and rewarding. By following the tips in this article, you can enjoy delicious, homegrown swedes all season long.
