Parsnip
Pastinaca sativa
History
While the exact roots of parsnip are unknown they were first brought to the roman emperor Tiberius by germanic tribes. They were noted a having a sweet nutty flavor making the popular beforre the rise of sugar cane. It remained popular until the potoato began its rise in mass cultivation.
Growing conditions
Sunlight
Needs atleast 6 hours of direct sunlight
Temperature Range
50F-70F
Can tolerate a light frost but not frozen grounds
Soil Conditions
Sandy Loam soil
Water
1 to 2 inches of water per week
Water the plants regularly keeping soil moist not soggy.
Nutrients
5-10-10
Potassium and phosphorus aid in root growth
pH
6.0-6.5
Plant care
Sowing Seeds
Clear out any debris from the soilbefore planting. Sow seeds 1/2 inch deep with 1/2 an inch of spacing.
Germination
Seeds cam take 2 to 4 weeks for germination. keep soil moist during this time.
Pruning
thin out the plant to about 3 inches of space. Remove any dead or diseased leaves.
Harvest
havrest during winter on warmer day. loosen the soil with a pitch fork and gently pull them out
Growing Tips
It can take 2 years before it produces seeds.
If the root staying in the ground over winter into spring it can change the flavor if the root making it bitter.