What To Know
- It requires a bit of strategic planning, a touch of patience, and a whole lot of love for this humble root vegetable.
- Parsnips planted in the fall will overwinter in the ground and be ready for harvest in the spring.
- They can be left in the ground over winter and harvested when the soil thaws in the spring.
Are you ready to harvest parsnips that are truly impressive? Growing big, beautiful parsnips isn’t just about planting seeds and hoping for the best. It requires a bit of strategic planning, a touch of patience, and a whole lot of love for this humble root vegetable. This guide will equip you with the knowledge and techniques to cultivate parsnips that will leave your neighbors green with envy.
Choosing the Right Parsnip Variety
The first step to growing big parsnips is choosing the right variety. Not all parsnips are created equal, and some are genetically predisposed to grow longer and thicker than others. Here are a few popular varieties known for their size:
- “All-American”: This classic variety produces long, straight parsnips with a sweet flavor.
- “Hollow Crown”: As the name suggests, this variety has a hollow crown, making it easier to peel. It’s also known for its impressive size.
- “Gourmet”: This variety boasts a slightly sweeter flavor and a more compact shape, making it ideal for smaller gardens.
- “Harris Model”: This heirloom variety is known for its exceptional size and deep, sweet flavor.
Preparing the Soil: The Foundation for Success
Parsnips thrive in loose, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. They have deep taproots, so it’s crucial to prepare the soil thoroughly. Here’s how:
1. Amend the Soil: Start by adding plenty of organic matter like compost, aged manure, or leaf mold to improve soil structure and fertility.
2. Remove Stones and Debris: Parsnips need ample space to grow, so remove any large stones or debris from the planting area.
3. Till Deeply: Parsnips have long taproots, so till the soil at least 12 inches deep to ensure they have enough room to grow.
4. Test Soil pH: Use a soil testing kit to determine your soil’s pH. If it’s too acidic, add lime to raise the pH.
Timing is Everything: When to Plant Parsnips
Parsnips are cool-season vegetables, meaning they prefer cooler temperatures. In most regions, you can direct sow parsnip seeds in the spring or fall. Here’s a general planting guide:
Spring Planting:
- Timing: Plant seeds 2-4 weeks before the last frost date in your area.
- Benefits: Spring planting allows for a longer growing season and larger parsnips.
Fall Planting:
- Timing: Plant seeds 6-8 weeks before the first frost date in your area.
- Benefits: Parsnips planted in the fall will overwinter in the ground and be ready for harvest in the spring.
Planting Parsnip Seeds: A Gentle Touch
Parsnip seeds are small and slow to germinate, so it’s important to plant them correctly:
1. Direct Sow Seeds: Parsnips are best direct-sown in the garden. Avoid transplanting them, as this can damage their taproots.
2. Spacing: Space seeds 1-2 inches apart in rows that are 12-18 inches apart.
3. Depth: Sow seeds 1/2 inch deep in the soil.
4. Watering: Water seeds thoroughly after planting and keep the soil consistently moist.
Thinning for Success: Giving Parsnips Space to Grow
Once parsnip seedlings emerge, it’s crucial to thin them to ensure proper spacing.
1. Timing: Thin seedlings when they are about 2-3 inches tall.
2. Spacing: Thin seedlings to 4-6 inches apart.
3. Method: Carefully pull out weaker seedlings, leaving the strongest ones to grow.
Cultivation: Nurturing Growth
Parsnips need consistent moisture and regular weeding to thrive. Here’s how to care for your parsnip patch:
1. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
2. Weeding: Remove weeds regularly to prevent them from competing with your parsnips for nutrients and water.
3. Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch, such as straw or wood chips, around your parsnips to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Harvesting: The Sweet Reward
Parsnips are ready for harvest when they reach your desired size, typically 6-8 months after planting. Here’s how to harvest them:
1. Timing: Harvest parsnips in the fall or early winter. They can be left in the ground over winter and harvested when the soil thaws in the spring.
2. Method: Use a garden fork or trowel to gently loosen the soil around the parsnips. Then, carefully lift them from the ground, avoiding damage to the taproot.
3. Storing: Parsnips can be stored in a cool, dry place for several months.
Beyond the Basics: Tips for Extra-Large Parsnips
Here are a few additional tips to help you grow truly giant parsnips:
- Start with Healthy Seeds: Choose high-quality parsnip seeds from a reputable source.
- Fertilize Regularly: Feed your parsnips with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks to ensure they have ample nutrients for growth.
- Avoid Crowding: Ensure adequate spacing between plants to prevent competition for resources.
- Protect from Pests: Parsnips are susceptible to various pests, including carrot rust flies. Use row covers or other pest control methods to protect your plants.
- Patience is Key: Parsnips take time to grow, so be patient and don’t harvest them too early.
The Sweet End: Enjoying Your Giant Parsnips
Congratulations! You’ve successfully grown giant parsnips. Now it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Parsnips are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from roasted vegetables to soups and stews.
FAQs:
Q: Can I grow parsnips in containers?
A: While parsnips prefer to grow in the ground, they can be grown in containers. Choose a container that is at least 12 inches deep and wide to accommodate their deep taproots.
Q: What are the signs of a parsnip disease?
A: Parsnips are susceptible to several diseases, including parsnip canker and bacterial leaf blight. Look for signs like brown or black spots on leaves, wilting, or stunted growth.
Q: How do I prevent parsnip rust fly from damaging my plants?
A: Use row covers to protect your parsnips from carrot rust flies. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control infestations.
Q: Can I plant parsnips in the same spot every year?
A: It’s best to rotate your crops to prevent the buildup of soilborne diseases and pests. Avoid planting parsnips in the same spot for at least 3-4 years.
Q: What are the best companion plants for parsnips?
A: Parsnips grow well with onions, garlic, and lettuce. These companion plants can help deter pests and improve soil health.
