Parsnip Seeds - Hollow Crown

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.