Root of the matter

It isn’t always easy to grow crops like carrots but there are ways to boost your chances of growing roots

- Bob Flowerdew

HAVE you ever found that root crops, such as carrots and parsnips, can be a little tricky? Don’t be surprised: sowing, weeding and digging up beauties can be a tad difficult for some.

Much depends on your soil – a sandy loam suits more than heavy clay. Stoneridden soil induces annoying contortions, as can uneven fertility such as when crop residues are still decaying or bits of previously applied manure remain intact. But do not despair: almost any soil can grow roots (just not prize-winners).

Stone-ridden soil can lead to forking, as can decaying crop residues or solid lumps of previously applied manure

A cloche or low tunnel will help with the success of early sowings in situ, and can be moved once seedlings have shown