The parsnip requires a long growing season, but the distinctive sweet flavor of the root will only develop after a hard frost. Though the parsnip is grown in the southern part of the United States, it has become a favorite of cold climate gardeners. Because it is one of the hardiest vegetables, it can overwinter easily with careful mulching. Parsnips do not like rich, fertile soil. Instead they prefer average soil that is a loose loam. Parsnips are very slow to germinate (approximately 3 weeks). Direct seed in early to mid-spring planting the seed ½ inch deep, 1 inch apart, in rows 18-24 inches apart. Thin the seedlings to 4 inches apart. When harvesting parsnips, dig, do not pull the roots after several hard frosts. The roots can be harvested throughout the winter if heavily mulched with straw. Parsnips are some of the hardiest vegetables grown. They can freeze solid without losing any of their sweet flavor or compromising their texture.

Parsnip- Harris Model -150 Ct $1.25