Grow Delicious, Cream-Fleshed Swedes with Swede Tweed F1 Seeds
Swede Tweed F1 is a British-bred hybrid variety renowned for its early maturity and vigorous growth. It produces uniform, globe-shaped roots featuring attractive purple shoulders and creamy-white flesh with a fine texture and excellent flavour. This variety is particularly well-suited to less fertile soils and exhibits strong resistance to clubroot disease, making it a reliable choice for UK gardeners.
Growing Conditions
Swede Tweed F1 thrives in full sun and prefers moist but well-drained soil. It can tolerate less fertile soils, reducing the need for extensive soil preparation. Maintaining consistent moisture levels is essential to prevent the roots from becoming woody.
Planting Guide
- Sowing Period:
- Sow seeds directly outdoors from May to June.
- Sowing Depth and Spacing:
- Sow seeds 1.5 cm (½ inch) deep in rows spaced 45 cm (18 inches) apart.
- Once seedlings are large enough to handle, thin them to 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) apart to allow adequate room for root development.
- Direct Sowing:
- Swedes dislike being transplanted, so it’s best to sow seeds directly where they are to grow.
Care & Maintenance
- Watering:
- Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods, to prevent the roots from becoming woody.
- Weeding:
- Regularly remove weeds to reduce competition for nutrients and water.
- Pest & Disease Management:
- Protect young plants from slugs and snails.
- Swede Tweed F1 has good resistance to clubroot disease, reducing the risk of this common issue.
Harvesting & Storage
- Harvesting:
- Swedes are typically ready to harvest from October onwards.
- They can be left in the ground and lifted as needed throughout the winter.
- Storage:
- For longer storage, lift the roots and store them in boxes of damp sand in a frost-free shed.
