Ah, the humble parsnip! Often overshadowed by flashier vegetables, this root has a fascinating history, is a delight to grow and stores beautifully, making it a must-have for foodies, gardeners and fans of self-sufficiency alike.
A Brief History of Parsnip
Did you know parsnips have been around for centuries, way before the potato became the starchy king of the table? These creamy, sweet roots graced the feasts of the Romans, who prized their nutty flavour and versatility. During the Middle Ages, parsnips were a staple across Europe, providing a rich source of carbohydrates, especially in colder months when other crops failed.
And here’s a fun fact for you—ancient Britons embraced parsnips long before the Columbian exchange brought potatoes to our soils. Roasted, stewed or even brewed into parsnip wine; this vegetable was an essential part of their culinary repertoire. While potatoes eventually stole the spotlight, the parsnip remains a beloved addition to British roasts and hearty winter soups.
How to Sow and Grow Glorious Parsnips
“Think growing parsnips is tricky? Not on our watch!”
Growing parsnips might require a little patience, but the rewards—a bumper harvest of delicious roots—are well worth it. Here’s how to do it right:
Step 1: Start with rich, deep soil
Parsnips are fussy about their growing medium. They love loose, well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter. If your soil is heavy or rocky, you might end up with forked or stunted roots. Make sure to dig the ground thoroughly—think tilth as fine as breadcrumbs!
Step 2: It’s all about timing
Parsnips are cool-loving veggies, so timing is key. Aim to sow seeds between March and May, once the soil temperature is around 10°C. Don’t rush—you want those seeds to germinate under the right conditions to ensure you get beautifully straight, robust roots.
Step 3: Direct sowing is best
Parsnips dislike transplanting, so sowing them directly where they’ll grow is the way to go. Space the seeds 15cm apart in rows about 30cm apart to give each plant room to stretch its roots.
Step 4: Water and wait
After sowing, water the area gently and keep the soil moist. Patience is key—parsnip seeds can take up to three weeks to germinate! But don’t fret—those tiny seedlings are busy preparing to wow you with big, hearty roots.
Step 5: Thin and nurture
Once the seedlings are up, thin them to the healthiest, strongest plants. Keep an eye out for weeds and water regularly but avoid overwatering. Parsnips are resilient but appreciate steady hydration, especially in dry spells.
Step 6: Harvesting your treasure trove
Parsnips are slow growers, taking about 4-5 months to mature. The best part? Frost improves their flavour, turning their starches into sugars. Wait for that first nip of frost before harvesting for the sweetest results. Simply loosen the soil around them with a fork and pull them up carefully—there’s nothing like that first crunch as you unearth these pale beauties!
Storing Your Parsnip Gold
You’ve grown the perfect parsnips—now how do you keep them fresh and fabulous? Parsnips are fantastic for storage, making them a favourite for the self-sufficient among us.
Option 1: Keep them in the ground
If your winters are mild, leave your parsnips in the soil where they grew. Just cover them with straw or mulch to prevent the ground from freezing solid. That way, you can pull them out fresh whenever you fancy.
Option 2: Store them like a true grower
Want to store them indoors? Trim the leaves and pack the parsnips into a box of damp sand or sawdust. Keep the box in a cool, dark and frost-free location. This method replicates natural conditions and prevents them from drying out.
Option 3: Freeze for future feasts
Blanch chopped parsnips in boiling water for a couple of minutes, then plunge them into ice water. Once cool, pack them into the freezer for soups, stews or those spontaneous Sunday roasts!
Why Parsnips Deserve a Spot in Your Life
From their storied history to their sweet, earthy flavour, parsnips are a vegetable full of character. Whether you’re a foodie excited by their culinary potential, a gardener keen to grow a showstopping harvest, or someone simply seeking self-sufficiency, these roots have something to offer.
And here’s the best part—there’s no better time to champion the parsnip than now. Add them to your allotment plans, experiment with hearty recipes and discover for yourself why they’ve stood the test of time.
Further Reading: The Benefits of Growing Your Own Food, How to Grow Potatoes at Home, How to Grow Asparagus in Your Home Garden