Emergence can be slow - three to four weeks from sowing to full emergence. Planting is ideally from mid to late spring. A good soil structure is required with good drainage, preferably a sandy or clay loam. Regular and even water applications will ensure that roots are not hollow. Harvesting can start in early February when roots are small and have most appeal for the fresh market.
Frost damage is a problem and mechanical harvesting can be difficult under wet conditions.
Little is known at this stage about herbicides required. Boron deficiency may occur - a sign is small, hollow roots and yellowing of the youngest mature leaves. A preventative base dressing can be applied to soil if soils are prone to boron deficiency. Other factors influencing yields are overall crop health, seasonal influence and grower expertise. Individual roots can weigh between 300 and 800 g. Processing and quality After the foliage and hair roots have been trimmed the roots can be washed and stored at around 4-5 C. Storage problems include bacterial soft rots and desiccation.