Parsnip

Apiaceae

Most challenging root crop in SoilStack. Extremely slow germination (14-30 days), long DTM (100-130 days), specific soil requirements (12-15 inch deep, rock-free). BUY FRESH SEED EVERY YEAR — viability lost after one year. Over-seed and thin. Mark rows with radish seeds. Cold-sweetening ESSENTIAL for best flavor — do not harvest until after several hard frosts. Can overwinter under 6-10 inch mulch. Biennial — harvest before second-year regrowth or roots become woody.

At a Glance

Days to Maturity

100–130 days

Sun

6+ hours

Container

Not Ideal

5+ gallon pot

Zone Planting Guide

Your USDA Zone:

Growing Guide

Germination

Germination Time 14–30 days

Optimal Temp 55°F

Seed Depth 0.5"

Watering

Needs Moderate

Soil

pH Range 6–7

Resilience

Heat: Low Cold: High

Nutrition

Feeding Intensity Moderate feeder

Sources

university USU Extension — Parsnips university Illinois Extension — Parsnips university MSU Extension — How to Grow Parsnips

More Roots

Parsnip Planting Dates by Zone

Planting dates for Parsnip vary by USDA hardiness zone. Select your zone below for frost dates, start-indoors timing, and a full monthly planting calendar.

Zone 5A Zone 5B Zone 6A Zone 6B Zone 7A Zone 7B Zone 8A Zone 8B Zone 9A Zone 9B

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