As autumn enters its last month, we eagerly prepare to sink our hands into the earth and nurture the next generation of vegetables. Among the myriad choices of what to plant, there’s a special allure to cultivating root vegetables during this time. With the soil still moist from autumn rains and the promise of warmer days ahead, May provides the perfect conditions for these hearty crops to thrive.
Following the hungry and productive crops of a faded but not forgotten summer, root vegetables find an ideal home in the slightly depleted soils left behind. From the sandy loam of the coastal areas to the nutrient-rich clay soils of the inland regions, there’s a patch of earth suited to each variety. Carrots, beetroots, radishes and turnips eagerly await their chance to stretch their roots and soak up the nutrients hidden beneath the surface.
One of the joys of growing root vegetables in May is the anticipation of the harvest to come. Unlike their leafy counterparts, which offer instant gratification with their quick growth, root vegetables require patience and perseverance. And the rewards are worth the wait.
Take carrots, for example. Planted in the cool soil of May, these humble roots slowly begin their journey underground, their delicate green tops peeking through the earth as if to say: “I’m here, I’m growing”. With each passing day, their slender roots lengthen and thicken, absorbing nutrients and water from the soil until they reach their full potential.
Similarly, beetroots revel in these lower temperatures, their vibrant greens providing a striking contrast to the rich reds and purples hidden beneath the surface. As they grow, their sweet, earthy flavour intensifies, making them a welcome addition to salads, soups and side dishes.
Radishes, with their crisp texture and peppery bite, also thrive in the cool, moist conditions late autumn brings. Whether enjoyed raw as a crunchy snack or sliced thinly and added to sandwiches and salads, these versatile roots add a burst of flavour to any dish.
And let’s not forget about turnips, those unsung heroes of the vegetable world. Planted now, these hearty roots grow steadily throughout the season, their mild, slightly sweet flavour making them a favourite for the creative home cooks. Whether roasted, mashed or added to stews and soups, turnips are a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal.
Perhaps the true beauty of growing root vegetables at this time of year lies not just in the harvest, but in the act of gardening itself. There’s something inherently satisfying about tending to the earth, about feeling the cool soil beneath your fingertips and watching as tiny seeds transform into hearty plants. In a world that often feels chaotic and uncertain, the simple act of growing vegetables grounds us, connecting us to the rhythms of nature and reminding us of our place in the world.
So as autumn invites us to enjoy these cooler days, let us embrace the opportunity to cultivate our own corner of paradise. Whether it’s a small patch in the backyard or a community garden plot, there’s magic to be found in the act of growing root vegetables. And as we watch our carrots, beetroots, radishes and turnips thrive and flourish, we are reminded that, like these humble roots, we too have the power to grow and thrive in even the most challenging of conditions.
HAPPY GARDENING!
Drew Cooper, Edible Gardens
www.ediblegardens.com.au
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