Sow three seeds at 15cm (6in) intervals, 13mm (0.5in) deep in rows 30cm (12in) apart.
Although it is sometimes recommended to start sowing in February, this can lead to failure. Sowings made in March and April, and even early May, will do much better. Or warm the soil before sowing with cloches or similar; leave in place until the seedlings have developed two true leaves.
When the seedlings are about 2.5cm (1in) high thin out to leave one seedling per 15cm (6in) station.
Keep the soil weed free, hand weeding close to the roots to avoid damage. Keep the soil evenly moist to avoid splitting.
The roots are ready to lift when the foliage starts to die down in autumn; use a fork to carefully lift them. They can be left in the soil and lifted as required, although lifting a few extra in November will ensure you still have parsnips to eat even if the soil is frozen. Lightly frosted roots tend to produce the best flavour.
‘Albion’: Develops evenly tapered, wedge-shaped roots about 33cm/13in long which are about 6cm/5 1/4in wide at the top. The skins are smooth and white and slow to discolour. Ideal for organic gardeners, ‘Albion’ is resistant to parsnip canker, and other diseases.
‘Archer’ AGM: Very heavy yielding parsnip of very good flavour and resistance to canker
‘Gladiator’ AGM: High yielding parsnip with good flavour and especially suited to heavy soils.
‘Palace’ AGM: Has good quality roots, and offers heavy yield and good canker resistance.
‘Tender and True’ AGM: This parsnip boasts long roots and gives moderate yield. Sizes are mixed and it's not resistant to canker.
Parsnip canker: This orange, brown or purple-coloured rot usually starts at the top of the root. It is mostly caused by drought, over-rich soil or damage to the crown.
Remedy: Sow resistant cultivars such as ‘Avonresister’ and ‘Archer’, improve drainage and avoid damaging the roots. Avoid sowing seeds too early in the year. Protect from carrot fly.
Carrot fly: Larvae of this fly tunnel roots so affected areas have to be discarded and it also allows easier infection by parsnip canker.
Remedy: Grow roots under insect-proof mesh.
Find out more about carrot fly
Masterchef’s Greg Wallace transforms parsnips into nibbles to enjoy in front of the TV with his Crispy cheese parsnips
Yes, you’ve read this right – it’s a cake made with parsnip & caraway!
Sweet parsnips work well with apples too in these Parsnip and apple patties