Growing parsnips in your backyard can be a rewarding endeavor. Parsnips are a root vegetable with a sweet, nutty flavor and are a versatile addition to your garden. Here’s the ultimate guide to help you successfully grow parsnips in your own backyard:
1. Selecting Parsnip Varieties:
- Choose parsnip varieties suited to your climate and growing conditions. Some popular varieties include Hollow Crown, Gladiator, and Harris Model.
2. Soil Preparation:
- Parsnips thrive in loose, well-drained, and deeply tilled soil. Remove rocks and debris, as they can cause misshapen roots.
- Incorporate organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility.
3. Planting Time:
- Plant parsnip seeds in early spring, about 2-4 weeks before the last expected frost date, or in late summer for a fall harvest.
4. Seed Sowing:
- Parsnips are typically grown from seeds, not transplants. Sow seeds directly into the soil about 1/2 inch deep and space them 2-3 inches apart in rows.
- Keep the soil consistently moist until the seeds germinate, which can take 2-4 weeks.
5. Thinning:
- When parsnip seedlings are a few inches tall, thin them to achieve proper spacing. Leave at least 3-4 inches between plants.
- Use thinned seedlings in salads or as microgreens.
6. Care and Maintenance:
- Keep the soil consistently moist but avoid overwatering, as parsnips can be susceptible to rot.
- Mulch can help conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
- Consider covering the soil with row covers to protect the plants from pests like carrot rust fly.
- Fertilization is generally not required if you prepared the soil with organic matter.
7. Pest and Disease Management:
- Monitor for common pests like aphids, slugs, and carrot rust fly. Use appropriate pest control methods, such as neem oil or row covers.
- Rotating crops and practicing good garden hygiene can help prevent diseases like leaf spot.
8. Harvesting:
- Parsnips are usually ready for harvest 90-120 days after sowing, but they can be left in the ground longer for a sweeter taste.
- Gently dig parsnips out of the soil to avoid damaging the roots. They are more flavorful after a light frost.
- Trim off the tops and store parsnips in a cool, moist place for several months.
9. Storage:
- Store harvested parsnips in a root cellar or a cool, humid location to maintain their freshness. Do not wash them until you are ready to use them.
10. Enjoying Parsnips:
- Parsnips can be roasted, mashed, pureed, used in soups, stews, or added to dishes for their sweet, nutty flavor.
- They pair well with herbs like thyme and rosemary, and can be combined with other root vegetables for a tasty side dish.
By following these guidelines and tending to your parsnip crop, you can enjoy the delicious and nutritious benefits of homegrown parsnips from your own backyard garden.
