Use these tips to learn how to grow parsnips from seed in your garden this summer.
How to Grow Parsnips from Seed
Have you ever had a parsnip? They have a great sweet flavor, like a carrot, but they also have some earthy flavors as well so they lend themselves well to many recipes. Growing parsnips is fun and fairly easy to do in almost any growing zone. Because parsnips require a long growing season, some people may need to start them indoors if they are in a cooler growing zone. Here are some tips for growing parsnips from seed indoors as well as out.
How to Grow Parsnips from Seed Indoors
Since parsnips are a root vegetable, they can be difficult to start indoors as they need a deep are to grow their tap root. This is essential because in order to not be left with twisted plants, you will need to provide a place for them to grow such as the cardboard roll method. This is simply done by using 6 inch cut paper towel rolls and planting your seeds in them. Prepare your seeds in the following way.
Have 6 inch minimum cardboard tubes ready for planting. You can place them in a tray and put some seed starting soil in each. I also recommend placing them in buckets as well to keep them upright and supported while the roots form. This will also make them easier to transplant.
Soak fresh seeds overnight in warm, moist paper towels. The next day, place about 4 seeds in the surface of each tube. Gently put them in the soil just below the surface. Keep your seeds in a warm area and you will see germination in about 2 or 3 weeks. Seedlings are ready to plant when they have 2-3 leaves.
How to Grow Parsnips from Seed Outdoors
Parsnips require a long growing season so if you live in a warmer growing zone, you can and should start them directly sown into the ground as they have a better chance due to the tender roots of the seedlings. As soon as the soil is workable is best.
To start, prepare the soil by loosening it about 12 inches deep and mixing in some compost. You will probably need about 2 inches of compost. Also, make sure you are choosing a spot that has full sun for best results. If you have only shadier spots, choose a spot that has at least partial sun.
Sow seeds about 2 inches apart by pushing 2-3 seeds into each spot. You do need to make sure you are working with fresh seeds either harvested last year at the latest or bought new each year as parsnip seeds do not last long for sowing.
Water the area and you should see seeds germinate in about 2-3 weeks.
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