
Parsnips are cool-weather biennials grown as an annual. Parsnips taste best if brought to harvest in cool weather. The parsnip is a creamy white root that grows from 4 to 9 inches (10-22cm) long, similar to a carrot in appearance and tasty like a celery heart. The parsnip is a biennial grown as an annual. A rosette of celery-like leaves grows from the top of the fleshy root.
Here’s your complete guide to growing parsnips.
Parsnips Quick Growing Tips
- Sow parsnip seed directly in the garden 2 to 3 weeks before the average date of the last frost in spring. In warm-winter regions, parsnips can be planted in autumn.
- Plant 10 parsnips per household member.

Where to Plant Parsnips
- Parsnips prefer full sun but will tolerate partial shade.
- Grow parsnips in soil that has been turned to 12 inches (30cm) deep where all lumps and rocks have been removed so that roots do not split and fork.
- Parsnip prefers a soil pH of 6.0 to 6.8.
- Prepare planting beds two to three months in advance adding well-aged compost. Add manure only if it is aged; manure too fresh will cause root crops to fork.
Parsnips Planting Time
- Parsnips require a long, cool growing season where the average temperature is between 45°F and 65°F (7-18°C).
- Parsnips will tolerate cold and freezing temperatures at both the start and end of their growing time.
- Sow parsnip seed directly in the garden 2 to 3 weeks before the average date of the last frost in spring. In warm-winter regions, parsnips can be planted in autumn.
Planting and Spacing Parsnips
- Sow parsnip seeds ½ inch deep and 1 inch (2.5cm) apart in wide rows; thin seedlings to 3 to 4 inches (7-25cm) apart.
- Space rows 18 to 24 inches (45-61cm) apart.
- Thin seedlings after they develop two true leaves; cut off thinned seedlings at soil level to avoid disturbing remaining seedlings. Thinning is important; parsnips require adequate space for root development.
Parsnip Companion Plants
- Good companion plants for parsnips include beets, carrots, rutabagas, and root vegetables.
- Avoid planting with cabbage family crops, tomatoes, and tomatillos.
Container Growing Parsnips
- Parsnips can be grown in containers but require at least 18 inches (45cm) of root space.

Water and Feeding Parsnips
- Parsnips require moist but not wet soil for uninterrupted root development.
- As roots approach maturity, reduce watering to avoid cracking.
- Prepare planting beds with aged compost. Add aged-manure to planting beds in advance of planting.
- Side dress plants at midseason with aged compost.
Parsnips Care
- Keep planting beds weed-free to avoid competition for light, water, and nutrients. Cultivate shallowly to avoid damaging roots.
- Where the ground may freeze, add 6 to 10 inches (15-25cm) of straw or mulch above plants before the first snow; harvest roots as needed in winter.
- In warm regions, mulch to regulate soil temperature; roots will grow short if the soil temperature is too high.
Parsnips Pests and Diseases
- Parsnips are generally not bothered by pests.
- Root maggots may be troublesome; discourage flies from laying eggs near the plants by putting a 3 to 4 inch (7-10cm) square of plastic around each plant.
- Parsnips have no serious disease problems.

Harvesting and Storing Parsnips
- Parsnips reach maturity 100 to 130 days after sowing.
- Lift parsnips with a spading fork being careful not to damage roots.
- Roots can stay in the garden through the winter if the ground does not freeze. Cold temperatures will increase the sweetness of roots.
- Dig roots before the ground freezes and becomes unworkable.
- Complete the harvest before the return of warm weather or roots will become pithy.
Storing and Preserving Parsnips
- Store parsnips in the refrigerator for up to 2 months or in a cold, moist place for 2 to 6 months.
Parsnip Varieties to Grow
Parsnips Varieties. ‘All American’ (105 days); ‘Cobham Improved Marrow’ (120 days); ‘Gladiator’ (110 days); ‘Harris Early Model’ (100-120 days); ‘Hollow Crown Improved’ (95-135 days); ‘Lancer’ (120 days); ‘Student’ (110 days); ‘Tender and True’ (102 days).
About Parsnips
- Common name. Parsnip
- Botanical name. Pastinaca sativa
- Origin. Europe
More tips: How to Harvest and Store Parsnips.
Grow 80 vegetables and herbs: KITCHEN GARDEN GROWERS’ GUIDE