Root Crops
Root Crops
Root crops thrive in the KY shoulder-seasons and are praised for their cold hardiness and long storage life. The most important production consideration is a well-draining soil with an optimum pH around neutral. Days to harvest can range from 50-75 days, making root crops such as beets and carrots good candidates for crop rotation and to add variety to CSA shares or Farmer’s Market booths.
Key Requirements
| Land | Low |
| Labor | Low |
| Capital | Low |
Take the HortBizQuiz to see how much Land, Labor, and Capital you have for your operation.
Markets
- Direct to Consumer
Pest & Disease
Root crops generally have few diseases when incorporated into a good crop-rotation plan, but planting time and soil temps are crucial for good seed establishment.
Costs and returns are presented as estimates. They will vary based on your farm and markets.
Costs and returns are presented as estimates. They will vary based on your farm and markets.
Opportunities
- Root crops can be very useful in rotation of vegetable families and have potential improve water percolation of soil post-harvest.
- Their storage life of up to 4 months can help extend a season and decrease the stress of selling a perishable product.
Challenges
- Root crops will need to be washed carefully before market.
- Some root crops have a higher return on investment and/or are more appetizing to customers. Knowing your market will be helpful.