Parsnip

UC Links

Pest management: Refer to carrot tips for cultural tips, pests, and diseases

When to plant: Direct seed January–March (possibly April), September

Harvest window

Harvest when the roots reach 1-inch diameter at the top.
Expect 90–120 days to maturity.
Flavor is best when the mature plants are exposed to cool weather for 2–4 weeks which encourages the starches in the roots to convert to sugars.
Loosen soil with a digging fork before pulling roots.

Care overview

Soil temperature should be >50ºF for germination. Seeds are very slow to sprout at that temperature (3–4 weeks). In general, expect at least two weeks for germination.
Plant seeds 1/2 to 3/4 inches deep.
Thin to 2–4 inch spacing. When thinning, it's recommended to snip off unwanted seedlings rather than pulling to avoid disturbing the roots of remaining plants.
Mound soil at base of plant to prevent greening of the root shoulders.
Cultural requirements are very similar to those of carrots.

More links

There are no specifically recommended varieties of parsnips yet.