Parsnip Savour - Renee's Garden

START SEEDS DIRECTLY OUTDOORS

After all danger of frost is over in spring, sow seeds in well-worked, very fertile soil in full sun. Space seeds 1 in. apart and cover 1/2 in. deep. Make rows 10 in. apart. Be patient; parsnips germinate slowly and unevenly. Tip: Drop a radish seed every 6 in. or so to mark the row and help break the soil crust. Parsnips will easily fill in once radishes are harvested.

GROWING NOTES

When large enough to handle, carefully thin seedlings to stand 3 to 4 in. apart so these big deep roots have room to size up. Keep growing parsnips consistently moist and well-weeded. Feed several times during active growth as parsnips grow best in very fertile soil.

HARVEST AND USE

Wait to harvest until late fall cold weather; flavor is sweetest & best after several hard frosts. As you need them, dig out roots carefully with a shovel or spading fork. In cold winter climates, protect parsnips from freezing with a thick mulch. Parsnips are delicious peeled, cut into chunks, tossed with olive oil & roasted until tender by themselves or with other root vegetables. Or slice them up to sauté gently in butter or steam and mash.