Collection: Root Vegetable Plants

Root vegetables can generally be planted either in spring for a late summer harvest or in autumn for a winter or spring harvest, depending on the variety.

The best soil for root vegetables is a well draining, loose soil with plenty of compost or manure mixed in. Carrots need to be planted in a soil that’s more on the sandy side.

Root vegetables prefer to be in a sunny spot with at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight per day, but they can also thrive in locations with a little light shade, particularly if this is in the afternoon.

Root vegetables need to be well watered to develop properly, but avoid waterlogging as this can cause problems. Watering deeply once or twice a week is usually enough, or more in hot and dry weather.

Every root vegetable variety is different, but generally you can tell they’re ready when you see their tops peeping through the soil or their leaves start to die back. Check our individual root veg pages for more information on each type.

Root vegetables tend to be good for storage purposes. They last longest when kept in a cool, dark place such as a fridge or garage, but check the individual variety for more information.

Root vegetables can be grown very successfully in raised beds or pots, as long as they’re deep enough - at least 45cm deep is best. Use a loose soil or compost and make sure whatever container you use has drainage holes in the bottom. Plants grown in pots will need more regular watering than those in the ground.

Root vegetables benefit from a soil enriched with compost or well rotted manure at planting time. You can also give them a boost every month or so during the growing season, by feeding them with a general purpose plant or vegetable food. For more growers’ tips, check out our guide to growing carrots.