Parsnips

Parsnips

Parsnips (Pastinaca sativa) are a root vegetable belonging to the Apiaceae family, which also includes carrots, celery, and parsley. They are known for their sweet, nutty flavor and are commonly used in soups, stews, and roasted vegetable dishes.

Starting Plants

Parsnips are typically grown from seed. Sow the seeds directly in the garden about 1/2 inch deep and 1 inch apart. Thin the seedlings to 3-4 inches apart once they have developed their first true leaves. Parsnips prefer well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8.

Planting Time

Parsnips are a cool-season crop and can be planted in early spring, about 2-4 weeks before the last frost date. In areas with mild winters, parsnips can also be planted in late summer for a fall or winter harvest.

Harvesting

Parsnips are ready to harvest when the foliage starts to die back and the roots are about 1-2 inches in diameter at the crown. This usually occurs 100-120 days after planting. Parsnips can be left in the ground over winter and harvested as needed, as the cold temperatures improve their flavor. Use a garden fork to carefully lift the roots from the soil to avoid damaging them.

Seed Harvesting

Parsnips are biennial plants, meaning they will produce seeds in their second year of growth. To harvest parsnip seeds, allow a few plants to overwinter in the garden and flower the following spring. Once the seed heads have turned brown and dry, cut them from the plant and place them in a paper bag to finish drying. Rub the seed heads between your hands to release the seeds, then store them in a cool, dry place until ready to plant.

Commonly Grown Varieties

Some popular parsnip varieties include:

• Hollow Crown: A traditional variety with long, tapered roots and a sweet flavor.
• Harris Model: A uniform, wedge-shaped variety with smooth skin and a small core.
• Javelin: A hybrid variety with smooth, white skin and a sweet, nutty flavor.
• Gladiator: A disease-resistant hybrid with long, smooth roots and a high yield.

Culinary Uses

Parsnips can be used in a variety of dishes, both savory and sweet. Some popular ways to prepare parsnips include:

• Roasted parsnips: Peel and cut parsnips into uniform pieces, toss with oil and seasonings, and roast until tender and caramelized.
• Parsnip soup: Simmer peeled and chopped parsnips with onions, garlic, and stock until tender, then puree until smooth.
• Mashed parsnips: Boil peeled and chopped parsnips until tender, then mash with butter, cream, and seasonings for a creamy side dish.
• Parsnip fries: Cut peeled parsnips into thin strips, toss with oil and seasonings, and bake or fry until crispy.
• Parsnip cake: Grate raw parsnips and incorporate them into a spiced cake batter for a moist, flavorful dessert.