How to Grow Straight Parsnips: A Step-by-Step Guide
Parsnips are a delicious and nutritious root vegetable, but they can be tricky to grow straight. Forked, twisted, or stunted roots are common problems, but they can be prevented with a little care and attention.
Why Do Parsnips Get Forked Roots?
Parsnips have a deep taproot that grows straight down into the soil. When the taproot hits an obstacle, such as the bottom of a seed tray or hard soil, it can fork or coil.
How to Prevent Forked Parsnips
There are several things you can do to prevent forked parsnips:
- Start seeds indoors in cardboard tubes. Cardboard tubes provide a deep, narrow space for the taproot to grow straight down.
- Prepare the soil deeply. Parsnips need loose, well-drained soil to grow properly. Dig the soil to a depth of at least 17 inches and break up any clumps or clods.
- Transplant seedlings as soon as the third leaf appears. If you wait too long to transplant, the taproot may hit the bottom of the container and begin to fork.
How to Start Parsnips in Cardboard Tubes
To start parsnips in cardboard tubes, you will need:
- Cardboard tubes (6-8 inches long)
- Compost
- Parsnip seeds
- Place the cardboard tubes in a tray.
- Fill the tubes with compost.
- Pre-germinate the parsnip seeds on moist paper towels, then carefully place the germinated seeds just below the surface of the compost.
- Water the seeds lightly.
- Place the tray in a warm, sunny location.
- Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
- Transplant the seedlings as soon as the third leaf appears.
Transplanting Parsnip Seedlings
When the parsnip seedlings have three leaves, it is time to transplant them into the garden.
- Dig holes about 17-20 inches deep and 6 inches wide.
- Space the holes 6-8 inches apart.
- Remove the parsnip seedlings from the cardboard tubes.
- Place the seedlings in the holes, with the tops of the roots even with the soil surface.
- Fill in the holes with soil and water the seedlings deeply.
Caring for Parsnips
Parsnips are relatively easy to care for. They need regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. Fertilize the plants every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
Harvesting Parsnips
Parsnips are ready to harvest in the fall, after the first hard frost. To harvest parsnips, simply dig them up with a shovel or garden fork.
Storing Parsnips
Parsnips can be stored in a cool, dark place for several months. They can also be frozen for up to a year.
Troubleshooting
Problem: My parsnips are forked.
Solution: This is likely due to the taproot hitting an obstacle. Make sure to start seeds in deep containers and prepare the soil deeply before transplanting.
Problem: My parsnips are stunted.
Solution: This could be due to poor soil conditions, lack of water, or nutrient deficiency. Make sure to prepare the soil deeply and fertilize the plants regularly.
Problem: My parsnips are not germinating.
Solution: Parsnip seeds can be slow to germinate. Keep the soil moist and warm until the seeds germinate.
