Introduction
Parsnips are a classic root vegetable, cherished for their sweet, earthy flavour that develops after a touch of frost. Growing parsnips in the southeast of the UK is relatively straightforward, and they can be a rewarding addition to your vegetable garden.
Why grow parsnips?
Parsnips are a great source of vitamins C and K, folate, and dietary fibre. Growing your own parsnips ensures they are fresh and free from pesticides. They store well, providing a nutritious vegetable option through the winter months.
Suitability for different growing environments
Parsnips prefer deep, well-drained soil that is free of stones. They thrive in sunny locations but can tolerate light shade. They are best grown directly in the ground due to their long taproots.
Lifecycle
Parsnips are biennial plants, typically grown as annuals. They are sown in spring and harvested from late autumn to early winter. The plants develop their roots during the summer and improve in flavour after the first frost.
Sowing and harvesting periods
- Sowing: Early spring (March to May)
- Harvesting: Late autumn to early winter (October to February)
Recommended varieties
Some popular parsnip varieties include:
- ‘Gladiator’
- ‘Tender and True’
- ‘White Gem’
- ‘Palace’
How to sow
Sow parsnip seeds directly into the ground in early spring. Prepare the soil by removing stones and adding compost. Sow seeds ½ inch (1.25 cm) deep, spacing them 6 inches (15 cm) apart in rows 12 inches (30 cm) apart. Thin seedlings to the recommended spacing once they have grown a few inches tall.
How to prick out/pot on
Parsnips do not transplant well due to their long taproots, so it is best to sow them directly in their final positions.
Where to plant
Choose a sunny spot with deep, well-drained soil. Avoid areas that have recently been used to grow root vegetables to minimise the risk of soil-borne diseases. Improve the soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting.
How many to plant (spacing)
Space parsnip plants 6 inches (15 cm) apart within rows spaced 12 inches (30 cm) apart. This allows enough room for the roots to develop fully without overcrowding.
How to plant
Sow seeds directly into prepared soil. Keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate, which can take 2-3 weeks. Thin the seedlings to the recommended spacing once they are large enough to handle.
Protecting your plants
Protect young seedlings from slugs and snails with organic slug pellets, beer traps, or by hand-picking. Use fine mesh or fleece to cover the plants and protect them from carrot fly.
How to feed and water
Parsnips do not require much additional feeding if the soil is well-prepared. Water the plants regularly, especially during dry spells, to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
How to propagate, prune/manage while growing
Parsnips are propagated from seed. They do not require pruning but ensure the beds are kept weed-free to reduce competition for nutrients and water.
How and when to harvest
Harvest parsnips from late autumn onwards, preferably after the first frost for the best flavour. Use a fork to lift the roots gently from the soil to avoid damaging them. Parsnips can be left in the ground and harvested as needed throughout the winter.
How to store
Store parsnips in a cool, dark place. They can be kept in the ground and dug up as required or stored in a box of damp sand in a shed or garage. Parsnips will keep for several months if stored correctly.
How to eat/cook
Parsnips can be roasted, boiled, mashed, or added to stews and soups. They make a delicious addition to many dishes, offering a sweet, nutty flavour. To prepare, simply wash, peel, and cut them into the desired size.
How to deal with pests and disease
Common pests include slugs, snails, and carrot fly. Use organic methods to manage these pests. Watch for diseases such as canker and root rot. Practise crop rotation and good garden hygiene to minimise the risk of disease.
When and how to remove the plants
Remove any remaining plants in late winter or early spring before the new growing season begins. Dig up the roots and compost any plant material.
What to plant before and after
Parsnips can follow crops that improve soil structure, such as legumes. Avoid planting after other root vegetables to reduce the risk of soil-borne diseases. After harvesting parsnips, consider planting leafy greens, brassicas, or legumes to make the most of the soil’s improved structure and nutrient content.
What to interplant with
Good companion plants for parsnips include onions, garlic, and bush beans. These plants help deter pests and do not compete heavily for nutrients or space. Avoid planting parsnips near carrots to reduce the risk of carrot fly infestation.