Use these instructions to learn how to grow parsnips in your garden this summer.
How to Grow Parsnip
Parsnip is a fun root vegetable to grow that is very versatile and can be eaten in many ways. Mash them for an alternative to potatoes. Dice them and roast them for a new spin on a side. Glaze them to complement their natural sweetness. Whatever you decide to do with them, growing them is rewarding and fun. Here are some tips for growing parsnips from seed to harvest and all the in-betweens.
How to Grow Parsnips from Seed
It is always best to direct sow parsnip seed, however, If you need to plant your seedlings before because you live in a cooler growing zone, try the paper tube method. This is simply done just as it sounds by using cardboard tubes from paper towel rolls to plant in. With parsnips, it is highly recommended you use the freshest seeds possible as well.
If you are able to direct sow outside, the preferred way, do so by planting fresh seeds about 3 inches apart in soil that has been loosened about 12 inches with compost mixed in.
For more information on how to grow parsnip from seed, check out this post.
How to Transplant Parsnip Seedlings
Parsnip seedlings are very tender. That is why it is best to transplant them in tubes rather than by themselves. To transplant parsnips that have been grown in tubes make sure to harden them off before attempting to transplant.
Get your solid ready in a full sun section of your garden. This is done by loosening about 12 inches of soil and mixing in compost.
Transplant parsnips by placing them, with their tubes, into the ground after digging a hole that fits them. Pat some soil around them
If you do not do the tube method, you can still transplant them. You just need to be careful with the tender roots as to not damage them.
For more information on transplanting parsnip seedlings, check out this post.
Parsnips and Pests
Parsnips are thankfully very resistant to pests. Most varieties are actually resistant now to the kinds of problems parsnips used to have such as parsnip canker.
Probably the only pest you may have to deal with is the common one for most plants in your garden and that is aphids. These are easy to take care of with a little bit of water from a hose when you see them, though.
How to Harvest Parsnips
Parsnips will likely be just ready when the weather starts to turn cold in most areas. The plants are mature about 4 months from start.
You can either pull them all up or leave some during the winter. If you choose to leave them, make sure you cover them with a protectant such as mulch and pluck them out as soon as you can in the springtime.
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