Parsnips

Some people tell me the best way to grow parsnip is to dig a trence put about 8-9 in of sand and then 6in of compost on top of the sand this way there will be no stones in the trench.

They tell me make sure there are no stones in the trench where the parsnips will be planted what are your views on this also there will be (manure the trench) ???

 

I have my parsnip seeds to sow for next year so will need a lot of advice for you guys having not grown veggies before next year a must though.

 

The BEST way to grow Parsnips ( and carrots ) come to that. Is, to make a hole, about 2ft deep, with a metal bar. Then fill the hole with sieved, multi purpose compost. Tamp it down gently to ensure there are no air pockets. Sow 4 or 5 seeds in the top and cover with about 1/2 inch of compost. When they`ve germinated pull out all but the strongest seedling.:gnthb: Tender and True or Gladiator are the best varieties for this.:thumb:

 

Dai's got it. That's how I used to grow good straight big crops, I used to joke with friends that I took a chain-saw to harvest them and stack them in a pile.

 

Love parsnips so tasty always even made home made parsnip crisps and much cheaper no additives.

Hi Dave love the Robin how is it in Perth cold frosy but a nice morning.

 

Just above freezing, and a few clouds. The ground has been frozen now for about the past week so I'm going to dig up our first parsnip of the winter to see if they have turned sweet yet.
Glad you like Mr Robin - he was on the kitchen window feeder when I snapped him.

 

Dave when would I sow my parsnip seeds beeing a first time grower

 

I usually try to sow between the end of March and mid-April. I 've been quite late sowing on occasion (May) and they've still done quite well.

 

Scotkat, as you are sowing them later in the year than we would down here. I would suggest you use Gladiator, as they tend to be faster growing than others varieties.:thumb:

 

Already had my parsnip seeds bought Daitheplant Unwins Improved Hollow Crowned what do you think of these?

 

I don`t see too much of a problem there Scotkat. Try them. I would also try an earlier sowing, if the ground isn`t frozen, that is.:thumb:

 

Just one more thing.... DON'T add any manure to next years parsnip bed, if the bed is too rich the parsnips will tend to fork (same for carrots).

 

Could I start them off in a pot in greenhouse as ground well frozen.

 

No, people will tell you, start them off in toilet roll centres. DON`T. Sow them straight in the ground.

 

Thanks for the information