Out of season right now. The next sowing window opens in May.
Growing Calendar
This month: Jul
Plan ahead for this crop
- •Check growing conditions
- •Prepare for next stage
Watch Out For
Flea beetle riddles young leaves with small holes. Cover with fine mesh from sowing until plants are established
Powdery mildew coats leaves in white late in the season. Water at the base rather than overhead and space plants generously for airflow
Roots split if watering is irregular after a dry spell. Keep watering consistent, especially through summer dry periods
Grown Organically
Every method in this guide works with natural systems — no synthetic chemicals, no shortcuts.
Read our approachCommon Questions
About growing Swede in the UK
What's the difference between swede and turnip?
Swede is larger, slower-growing and sweeter, with purple-topped, yellow-fleshed roots and smooth blue-green leaves. Turnip is smaller, quicker to mature, and has white-fleshed roots with rougher, bristly leaves. Swede also stores in the ground through winter far better than turnip.
Why are my swedes small and woody?
This usually means the roots were overcrowded, grown too fast in rich soil, or left in the ground too long past maturity. Thin seedlings promptly to their full spacing and lift roots once they reach a reasonable size rather than leaving them indefinitely.
Can I leave swede in the ground over winter?
Yes, swede is very hardy and roots often taste better after a frost, which converts some starch to sugar. In very heavy or waterlogged soil, lifting and storing in sand in a frost-free shed is a safer option.
Why are there holes in my swede seedling leaves?
Flea beetle is the most likely cause, especially in dry spring weather. Cover rows with fine insect mesh from sowing until plants are established, and keep the soil moist to help seedlings grow through the damage.
Member guides
There's more to growing Swede than this guide covers.
A Garden Journal to log what worked, a personalised sowing planner in My Garden, and monthly reminders timed to the calendar.
