Pastinaca sativa
TAXONOMY
FamilyApiaceae
GenusPastinaca
Zone4
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Pastinaca sativa, commonly known as parsnip, is a biennial plant in the Apiaceae family. It is native to Eurasia and has been cultivated since antiquity for its edible, creamy-white root. Parsnips thrive in temperate climates and are often grown as an annual for their roots, which are harvested in the first year. The plant has a dormancy period during the winter months.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Elaphoboscum Sativum
Peucedanum Opacum
Peucedanum Sativum
Selinum Opacum
Wild Parsnip
Anethum pastinaca
Pastinaca angulosa
Pastinaca capensis
Pastinaca esculenta
Pastinaca fleischmannii
Pastinaca heracleoides
Pastinaca insularis
Pastinaca opaca
Pastinaca pratensis
Pastinaca propinqua
Pastinaca sativa subsp. sylvestris
Pastinaca sylvestris
Pastinaca taraxacifolia
Pastinaca tereticaulis
Pastinaca vulgaris
Peucedanum pastinaca
Selinum pastinaca
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterMoist
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature18° C
Humidity60%
GDD1,800
Dormancy4 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Parsnips require full sun and moderate temperatures to grow well. They prefer soil that is kept evenly moist but not waterlogged. Ensure the plant receives adequate light and maintain moderate humidity levels. Avoid extreme temperatures to prevent stress on the plant.Harvest
Parsnips (Pastinaca sativa) are typically ready to harvest about 120 days after planting. They are best harvested after the first frost, which helps to convert the starches in the roots to sugars, enhancing their flavor. To harvest, carefully loosen the soil around the roots with a garden fork to avoid damaging them, then gently pull the parsnips from the ground. It's important to handle them with care to prevent bruising. Parsnips can be left in the ground and harvested as needed throughout the winter, provided the ground does not freeze solid.Soil
Parsnips grow best in well-drained loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. The soil should be rich in organic matter to support healthy root development. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 5-10-10. Fertilize the soil before planting and again midway through the growing season to support healthy growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to poor root development.Repotting
Parsnips are typically grown directly in the ground and do not require repotting. If starting seeds indoors, transplant seedlings to the garden once they are large enough to handle and after the last frost date.Propagation
Parsnips are propagated by seeds. Sow seeds directly in the garden in early spring, as they do not transplant well. Thin seedlings to the appropriate spacing once they have grown a few inches tall.Pruning
Pruning is not required for parsnips. However, you can remove any damaged or diseased foliage to maintain plant health. Ensure that the plant has enough space to grow without competition from weeds.Toxicity
Parsnip leaves and stems contain furanocoumarins, which can cause skin irritation and photosensitivity in humans and pets. Handle the plant with care, especially during sunny weather, to avoid skin contact with the sap.Additional
Parsnips can be left in the ground over winter and harvested in early spring for a sweeter flavor. Mulch the soil to protect the roots from freezing temperatures. Regularly check for pests and diseases to ensure a healthy crop.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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