Salsify in Zone 5a & 5b
Tragopogon porrifolius
When to plant salsify in zone 5b
Zones 5a and 5b 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 10–May 17 |
| Estimated harvest | Sep 7–Sep 14 (~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 5's season
Zone 5b's frost-free window runs about 148 days, from May 10 to October 5. 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 5b calendar · Full companion planting guide · Full plant profile · Plan your beds in the Garden Designer →
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Growing Salsify in USDA zone 5b: when to start seeds indoors, when to direct-sow, and when to expect a harvest.
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