Salsify in Zone 4a & 4b
Tragopogon porrifolius
When to plant salsify in zone 4b
Zones 4a and 4b share the same average frost dates in our data, so this page covers both.
Method: Direct sow: Direct-sow outside. Salsify doesn't transplant well, or doesn't need the extra time indoors.
| Start indoors | Not typically started indoors |
|---|---|
| Direct sow / transplant outside | May 15–May 22 |
| Estimated harvest | Sep 12–Sep 19 (~120 days after direct-sowing) |
Spacing: 4 per square foot (square-foot-gardening spacing). Mature height: 1-2 ft.
Salsify is a long, slender root vegetable that's mostly fallen out of mainstream gardens but keeps a loyal following for its unusual, delicate flavor. It's a genuine long-season crop. Plan on it occupying its bed space from spring through late fall.
How salsify fits zone 4's season
Zone 4b's frost-free window runs about 128 days, from May 15 to September 20. Salsify needs about 120 days from sowing to first harvest.
Good companions
No standout companions recorded yet for Salsify.
Where to buy salsify seeds
See why we recommend these suppliers →
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See it growing
Search YouTube for "growing salsify" videos → (a live search, not a hand-picked video; results vary and aren't vetted by us)
← Back to the full zone 4b calendar · Full companion planting guide · Full plant profile · Plan your beds in the Garden Designer →
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Growing Salsify in USDA zone 4b: when to start seeds indoors, when to direct-sow, and when to expect a harvest.
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