1.0 (sensitive) yields will be reduced at higher salt levels
How Pollinated
Insects
Growth Habits
Biennials grown as annuals
Additional Information
Fertilizer Requirements
Use 1 to 1.5 pounds all purpose fertilizer (20-20-20) per 100 square feet of garden area.
Water Utilization
During establishment, keep row moist, but not water-logged.
Established parsnips need water when the top 2" of soil is dry.
Plant Development and Care
Deep, fertile soil is essential for successful production of parsnips. Smooth roots are hard to establish in heavy soils.
Sow seed directly into the garden row and thin to 1 1/2" between parsnips as they mature. Cover with a thin layer of sand or soil and do not allow soil to crust over the top of germinating seeds. A single layer of newspaper placed over seeded rows can be kept moist and keep the soil from crusting over.
Crowding will reduce root size. Check for doubles when thinning young plants. Thin to 2" to 3" apart. Mulch to maintain even soil moisture.
Germination Time (Days)
57 days at 41° F 27 days 50° F 19 days at 59° F 14 days at 68° F 15 days at 72° F 32 days at 86° F
Seed Germination and Temperature Range
Grows best at soil temperatures between 60° F and 70° F. Lower temperatures increase root length with less enlargement.
Common Fertilizer Deficiencies
Excess nitrogen causes excessive top growth and root forking
It is difficult to plant tiny seeds thinly enough. Try a salt or pepper shaker to sprinkle seeds thinly. Thin them to make room for parsnip roots to grow. Thin weekly until plants are about 1 1/2" apart.
Container Gardens