What to Know Before You Grow Parsnips

When learning how to grow parsnips, it is important to find out what to look out for as there are several varieties to choose from. The method of planting and the best time and place to do so are all important considerations to make. Take into account what time of the year to harvest them as well. Its also a good idea to find out about their culinary use.

Look for a variety of parsnip that is resistant to canker and other plant diseases. A few good tips about what to look out for can avoid crop failure later. The best way to evade most of these problems is to choose a resistant variety and plant the seeds at the right time, in the right kind of soil. If they are planted correctly they will stand the best chance against canker and other common plant diseases.

Neutral soil, mildly alkaline or acidic earth is the best type for planting. It is also a very good idea to ensure good drainage. It is not too important whether the seeds are planted in direct light or mild shade as long as the plant will get adequate sunlight. Keeping these in mind when planting will ensure a good crop of vegetables later.

They are a root vegetable that should be planted in early spring. Between the months of February and March would be ideal. Parsnip roots can grow to be quite large so it is best to provide a good distance between the plants, allowing them to grow. Digging a trench of about 15 millimetres deep with about 10-20 centimetres between each of the seeds should be quite adequate.

If they are being planted in rows, leave about 30 centimetres between the rows. They can also be planted in large containers if this method is preferred. After they have been seeded they might be slow to show signs of germination, this is quite normal with parsnips. Once they begin to grow, keeping them well watered and free of weeds will provide the greatest chance of success.

They are a hardy plant that can survive cold weather. They will be ready for harvesting as early as six months later, but this depends on preference as they can get tastier if they are left longer. They are usually harvested from late fall and throughout early winter until the frost arrives. They can be harvested after the frost and it does not affect the taste adversely but it is usually more difficult to do so then.

They are similar to carrots in some ways as they are part of the same family. They are quite sweet to taste in comparison. Winter soup seems to be a popular recipe for this versatile vegetable which can also be used in many other dishes. They can be baked, boiled, fried or steamed according to preference. Baking them will seem to increase the sweetness and keeps more of the nutrients sealed in.

Before potatoes were discovered in the new world, parsnips were a very popular staple food, especially in Western Europe. Learning how to grow parsnips is a very satisfactory pastime if done properly. This is especially true when it is time to reap the rewards at harvest time. There is something very rewarding about eating enjoyable food that has been cultivated from seed several months earlier.

Susan not only writes on vegetable gardening topics, but she also reads a lot. View some other articles on how to grow parsnips and growing parsnips on these other sites.

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