Parsnip

Parsnip, Winter White (Pastinaca sativa) is a winter-hardy variety that produces tender, sweet, and creamy white roots ideal for long-term storage. This variety is particularly valued for its ability to thrive through the cooler months, providing fresh and sweet roots even in late winter and early spring.

Features:

Appearance: The roots are white, smooth, and cylindrical, tapering at the base. Winter White parsnips are known for their clean, smooth texture, with less fibrousness than other varieties.

Flavor: Sweet and nutty with a distinctive earthiness, the flavor intensifies after exposure to frost, making Winter White parsnips a great option for fall and winter harvesting.

Texture: When cooked, these parsnips have a creamy texture that is perfect for mashing, roasting, or soups.

Uses:

Soups & Stews: The sweet, mild flavor makes Winter White parsnips perfect for creamy soups, stews, and hearty casseroles.

Roasting & Mashing: Ideal for roasting or mashing, their natural sweetness comes out when they caramelize or roast to golden brown.

Purees: Perfect for use in creamy purees, these parsnips make an excellent addition to mashed root vegetables or as a side on their own.

Baking: Winter White parsnips can be finely grated and added to cakes, muffins, and other baked goods to add moisture, flavor, and a hint of sweetness.

Planting Instructions:

Planting Depth: Sow seeds around 1/2 inch deep to encourage sturdy root growth.

Spacing: Allow approximately 6 inches of space between plants in rows to promote the development of long, tender roots.

Planting Time: These parsnips are best sown directly in the ground in early spring or late fall, taking advantage of the cool temperatures for optimal growth. They do well when the weather is cooler, as they require a long growing season of about 4-5 months.

Sun & Watering: Preferably grown in full sun with consistent moisture. A well-drained, moist soil will keep roots healthy. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot, but do maintain adequate moisture through dry spells.

Parsnip, Hollow Crown (Pastinaca sativa) is a classic and reliable variety of parsnip, known for its high yields and exceptional quality. It has long been a favorite of gardeners and cooks for its smooth, sweet, and nutty flavor, as well as its ability to produce large, tender roots.

Features:

Appearance: The roots of the Hollow Crown parsnip are long, tapering, and smooth with a creamy white skin. The name “Hollow Crown refers to the variety’s distinctive crown, which is hollow in shape, a characteristic that helps with ease of harvesting.

Flavor: It has a distinct sweet and earthy flavor, which becomes sweeter after frost exposure, making it a perfect fall and winter vegetable.

Texture: Hollow Crown parsnips have a smooth and firm flesh, which cooks to a tender texture that is perfect for mashing, roasting, or adding to soups.

Uses:

Soups & Stews: Hollow Crown parsnips are perfect for soups, stews, and casseroles. The sweet flavor complements root vegetables and savory ingredients.

Mashed or Roasted: Their creamy texture when mashed or roasted makes for an excellent side dish, providing a subtle, sweet contrast to meat and other vegetables.

Baked Goods: These parsnips are excellent when included in baked goods such as parsnip cakes or muffins, offering both moisture and flavor.

Purees: Hollow Crown parsnips are a great addition to mashed root vegetable medleys or can be blended into rich, silky purees.

Planting Instructions:

Planting Depth: Sow seeds approximately 1/2 inch deep.

Spacing: Space plants about 6 inches apart in rows, ensuring that they have enough room to grow long and free from obstruction.

Planting Time: Hollow Crown parsnips are best direct-seeded in early spring for a late fall harvest. They do best when temperatures are cooler, so planting too early in warm seasons may result in stunted growth.

Sun & Watering: The plants thrive in full sun and prefer consistent moisture. Make sure the soil is kept moist but not soggy, particularly during dry spells.

Parsnip, Guernsey (Pastinaca sativa) is a premium variety of parsnip known for its smooth texture, excellent flavor, and high yield. It is especially loved for its creamy, nutty taste that becomes sweeter with frost, making it a popular root vegetable in both savory and sweet dishes.

Features:

Appearance: Guernsey parsnips are long, cylindrical roots with smooth, pale, creamy-colored skin. They can grow up to 1214 inches in length, with a hearty, slightly tapered shape.

Flavor: The flavor is rich and slightly sweet, with earthy undertones. The sweetness intensifies after exposure to frost, making them perfect for winter harvest.

Texture: The flesh is smooth, creamy, and tender when cooked, ideal for mashing, roasting, or adding to stews and soups.

Uses:

Soups & Stews: Guernsey parsnips are perfect for roasting, pureeing, or adding to soups and stews. They absorb flavors well and contribute a velvety texture when blended.

Mashed or Roasted: Mash them with butter and seasonings for a creamy side dish, or roast them with olive oil and herbs for a flavorful vegetable dish.

Baking & Desserts: The natural sweetness of Guernsey parsnips makes them suitable for inclusion in cakes, pies, and even parsnip muffins.

Pureed: They also make a great base for creamy purees, mixing wonderfully with other root vegetables like carrots or potatoes.

Planting Instructions:

Planting Depth: Sow seeds 1/2 inch deep.

Spacing: Space plants around 6 inches apart in rows, with 1218 inches between each row to allow ample room for root development.

Planting Time: Best sown directly into the ground in early spring, as parsnips thrive in cool weather and mature over a long growing period. For a fall harvest, sow seeds in late spring to early summer.

Sun & Watering: Prefers full sun to partial shade. Regular watering is needed, but avoid waterlogging the soil. Keep the soil well-moistured, especially in dry spells.

Parsnip 'Melbourne White Skin' is a premium variety known for its smooth white skin and deliciously sweet, nutty flavor. This hardy, cold-tolerant root vegetable is perfect for late-season planting and will thrive in cool temperatures, making it ideal for fall and winter harvests. The roots are long and uniform, with creamy white flesh that becomes tender and sweet when cooked. Whether you're roasting, mashing, or adding to soups and stews, this variety's unique flavor and texture make it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Perfect for both beginner and experienced gardeners, 'Melbourne White Skin' ensures high yields and reliable growth.

Features:

• Smooth White Skin: A striking white exterior that sets it apart from traditional parsnips, adding a touch of elegance to your garden.
• Sweet, Nutty Flavor: Known for its milder, sweeter taste, making it a favorite in a variety of recipes.
• Cold-Hardy: Ideal for growing in cooler weather and can be harvested in late fall or early winter.
• Uniform Roots: Produces long, smooth, and consistent roots that are perfect for culinary use.
• Versatile Use: Perfect for roasting, mashing, adding to soups, or creating unique dishes like parsnip fries.

Specifications:

• Plant Type: Biennial (grown as an annual)
• Plant Height: 18-24 inches
• Root Length: 8-12 inches
• Days to Maturity: 100-120 days
• Sowing Depth: 1/4 inch
• Row Spacing: 12-18 inches
• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Requirements: Deep, well-drained soil; ensure the soil is loose for optimal root growth
• Watering Needs: Keep soil moist but not waterlogged, ensuring consistent watering throughout the growing season
• Ideal Temperature: 50-65 °F (10-18 °C)

Parsnip 'Melbourne White Skin' is a must-have for gardeners looking to grow a high-quality root vegetable with a unique appearance and excellent flavor. Its sweet, nutty taste and versatility in the kitchen make it a great addition to your garden and meal plans throughout the colder months.

The Hollow Crown parsnip is a classic heirloom variety known for its long, tapered roots and exceptional flavor. This variety produces smooth, creamy-white roots with a slightly hollow center, which contributes to its tenderness and ease of preparation. Renowned for its sweet, earthy taste that improves after frost, Hollow Crown parsnips are perfect for a variety of culinary uses, from roasting and mashing to soups and stews. This cold-hardy variety is ideal for gardeners looking to grow a high-quality, flavorful root vegetable.

Key Benefits

• Sweet, Earthy Flavor: Offers a mild, nutty flavor that intensifies after exposure to frost.
• Smooth, Tapered Roots: Easy to prepare with minimal waste, thanks to its smooth texture and hollow core.
• Cold Hardy: Thrives in cooler climates and can be left in the ground to harvest into winter.
• High Yield: Produces an abundant harvest with uniform, long roots.
• Versatile in the Kitchen: Ideal for roasting, mashing, soups, and even baking.

Variety Features

• Plant Characteristics: Strong, upright foliage with long, tapering roots up to 12 inches long.
• Flavor Profile: Sweet, earthy taste with a tender, creamy texture when cooked.
• Growth Habit: Grows tall with long, straight roots that feature a hollow center.
• Size: Roots typically reach 10–12 inches in length and 2–3 inches in diameter.

Planting Instructions

Planting Season

• Sow seeds in early spring once the soil has warmed enough to be worked.
• For a fall or winter harvest, plant in late summer.

Planting Details

• Seed Depth: Sow seeds 1/4–1/2 inch deep in well-prepared soil.
• Spacing: Thin seedlings to 3–4 inches apart, with rows spaced 12–18 inches apart.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers loose, deep, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0. Avoid compacted or rocky soil for straight roots.
• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade.

Care Instructions

Watering

• Keep soil consistently moist, particularly during germination (which can take 2–3 weeks).
• Water regularly with 1 inch per week to maintain even growth and prevent root splitting.

Fertilization

• Apply a low-nitrogen fertilizer (e.g., 5-10-10) at planting and again when plants are about 6 inches tall.

Weeding and Mulching

• Weed regularly to prevent competition for nutrients and space.
• Apply mulch around plants to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.

Pest and Disease Control

• Pests: Be mindful of pests such as carrot rust flies and aphids. Use organic pest control methods like row covers to protect plants.
• Diseases: Ensure proper spacing and airflow to reduce the risk of fungal diseases like leaf spot. Rotate crops to avoid disease buildup.

Harvesting

Maturity

• Hollow Crown parsnips are ready to harvest in 100–120 days, depending on growing conditions.
• Frost Improvement: For the best flavor, allow the roots to experience a light frost.

Method

• Loosen the soil carefully with a garden fork and gently pull the roots.
• Leave some roots in the ground for continued harvesting during the winter in milder climates.

Storage

• Short-Term: Store fresh parsnips in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
• Long-Term: Store in a cool, dark, and humid environment like a root cellar. They can keep for several months if stored correctly.

Culinary Uses

• Roasting: Bring out the natural sweetness of the parsnips when roasted, making them a delicious side dish.
• Soups and Stews: Adds a rich, sweet flavor to hearty soups and stews.
• Mashing: Mash with potatoes for a creamy, flavorful side dish.
• Baking: Grated parsnips can be used in cakes, muffins, and other baked goods.

Conclusion

The Hollow Crown parsnip is a reliable and flavorful heirloom variety, prized for its long, smooth roots and excellent taste. Its cold tolerance and high yield make it an excellent choice for gardeners in a range of climates. Whether used in savory dishes or baked goods, Hollow Crown parsnips offer a delicious addition to any meal.

The All-American parsnip is a high-yielding, versatile variety celebrated for its long, smooth roots and rich, sweet flavor. Known for its robust performance in cooler climates, this parsnip is a must-have for gardeners looking to cultivate a reliable and flavorful root vegetable. Perfect for roasting, mashing, or adding to soups, the All-American parsnip develops an even sweeter taste after exposure to frost, making it a great choice for fall and winter harvests.

Key Benefits

• Rich, Sweet Flavor: Offers a naturally sweet and nutty flavor that enhances after frost.
• High Yield: Produces abundant, uniform roots, ideal for home gardeners and market growers.
• Cold Hardy: Thrives in cooler climates and can be harvested well into winter.
• Smooth, Tapered Roots: Easy to clean and prepare, with minimal waste.
• Versatile in the Kitchen: Suitable for roasting, soups, purees, and even baked goods.

Variety Features

• Plant Characteristics: Strong, upright foliage with roots growing 10–12 inches long.
• Flavor Profile: Sweet and earthy, with a creamy texture when cooked.
• Growth Habit: Deep-growing roots that are uniform in shape and size.
• Size: Roots reach up to 12 inches in length and 2–3 inches in diameter.

Planting Instructions

Planting Season

• Sow seeds directly in the garden in early spring as soon as the soil can be worked.
• For a fall harvest, plant in mid-summer.

Planting Details

• Seed Depth: Sow seeds 1/4–1/2 inch deep.
• Spacing: Thin seedlings to 3–4 inches apart, with rows spaced 12–18 inches apart.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers loose, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0. Avoid compacted or rocky soils to ensure straight roots.
• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade.

Care Instructions

Watering

• Keep soil consistently moist, especially during germination, which may take up to 3 weeks.
• Provide 1 inch of water per week to promote healthy growth and prevent splitting.

Fertilization

• Apply a balanced or low-nitrogen fertilizer (e.g., 5-10-10) at planting and mid-season to encourage root development.

Weeding and Mulching

• Weed regularly to reduce competition, being cautious around the shallow root system.
• Apply mulch to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and prevent weed growth.

Pest and Disease Control

• Pests: Monitor for carrot rust flies and aphids. Use organic pest control methods or row covers for protection.
• Diseases: Prevent fungal issues like leaf spot by ensuring good airflow and practicing crop rotation.

Harvesting

Maturity

• All-American parsnips are ready to harvest in 100–120 days.
• Frost Enhancement: Leave roots in the ground for a light frost to develop a sweeter flavor.

Method

• Loosen soil with a garden fork and gently lift roots to avoid damage.
• Overwinter in milder climates for a continuous harvest.

Storage

• Short-Term: Refrigerate parsnips in a plastic bag for up to 2 weeks.
• Long-Term: Store in a cool, dark, and humid environment, such as a root cellar, for several months.

Culinary Uses

• Roasting: Enhances the parsnip's natural sweetness for a delicious side dish.
• Soups and Stews: Adds depth and creaminess to hearty meals.
• Mashing: Blends smoothly with potatoes for a flavorful mash.
• Baking: Grated parsnips bring a sweet, nutty flavor to cakes and muffins.

Conclusion

The All-American parsnip is a dependable and flavorful choice for gardeners of all skill levels. Its high yield, smooth roots, and cold-hardiness make it a standout variety for fall and winter harvests. Whether roasted, mashed, or added to soups, this versatile root vegetable is sure to delight with its rich taste and culinary flexibility.

The Harris Model parsnip is a gardener’s favorite for its smooth, uniform roots, sweet flavor, and reliable performance. Known for its tender texture and mild taste, this variety is perfect for roasting, soups, and purees. Harris Model parsnips thrive in cooler climates and improve in flavor after a light frost, making them an ideal addition to your fall or winter garden.

Key Benefits

• Superior Flavor: Sweet and nutty taste that intensifies after frost exposure.
• Smooth, Uniform Roots: Produces straight, tapered roots with a creamy white color.
• Cold Hardy: Performs exceptionally well in cool climates and can overwinter in many regions.
• Versatile Culinary Use: Perfect for roasting, mashing, soups, and stews.
• Long Storage Life: Stores well, maintaining flavor and texture for extended periods.

Variety Features

• Plant Characteristics: Robust plants producing long, smooth roots up to 12 inches in length.
• Flavor Profile: Mildly sweet and earthy, with a hint of nuttiness.
• Growth Habit: Develops deep roots and lush, green tops.
• Size: Roots grow up to 12 inches long and 2–3 inches in diameter.

Planting Instructions

Planting Season

• Sow seeds directly in the garden in early spring as soon as the soil is workable.
• Alternatively, plant in late summer for a fall harvest.

Planting Details

• Seed Depth: Sow seeds 1/4–1/2 inch deep in finely prepared soil.
• Spacing: Thin seedlings to 3–4 inches apart, with rows spaced 12–18 inches apart.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers loose, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0. Avoid rocky soils to prevent root deformities.
• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade.

Care Instructions

Watering

• Maintain consistent moisture, especially during the germination period, which can take up to 3 weeks.
• Provide 1 inch of water per week to prevent splitting and ensure tender roots.

Fertilization

• Apply a low-nitrogen fertilizer (e.g., 5-10-10) at planting and mid-season to encourage root development.

Weeding and Mulching

• Weed regularly to reduce competition, being careful around shallow seedlings.
• Mulch to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.

Pest and Disease Control

• Pests: Watch for carrot rust flies and aphids. Use floating row covers or organic pest sprays as needed.
• Diseases: Avoid overcrowding to prevent fungal diseases like leaf spot. Rotate crops annually for healthy soil.

Harvesting

Maturity

• Harris Model parsnips are ready to harvest in 100–120 days.
• Frost Improvement: Allow roots to experience a light frost for enhanced sweetness.

Method

• Loosen the soil with a garden fork and gently pull roots to avoid damage.
• Leave some roots in the ground to harvest through winter in milder climates.

Storage

• Short-Term: Store fresh parsnips in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
• Long-Term: For extended storage, place roots in a cool, dark, and humid environment like a root cellar.

Culinary Uses

• Roasting: Brings out the natural sweetness of parsnips, making a delicious side dish.
• Soups and Stews: Adds depth and creaminess to hearty winter dishes.
• Mashed: Combine with potatoes for a creamy, flavorful mash.
• Baking: Grate into cakes and muffins for a unique twist on baked goods.

Conclusion

The Harris Model parsnip is a reliable and flavorful choice for gardeners seeking a high-yield, cold-tolerant root vegetable. With its smooth texture, sweet flavor, and versatility in the kitchen, this variety is perfect for home gardens and small-scale farms. Whether roasted, mashed, or added to stews, Harris Model parsnips are sure to be a delicious addition to your table.