PARSNIP - TENDER AND TRUE

      Organic Parsnip Tender and True

          100 Seeds Pack    

First introduced in 1897, the Tender and True parsnip remains a favourite among gardeners and growers, celebrated for its long, tapering roots and exceptional quality. These roots reach up to 3 inches in diameter at the crown and can grow over a foot in length when cultivated in stone-free soil, ensuring a reliably straight and elegant shape. This makes them highly prized for competitive show benches.

The flesh of the Tender and True parsnip is a creamy white, renowned for its tenderness and remarkably sweet flavour. Parsnips as a species develop a distinctive long taproot, with the skin colour varying slightly among varieties from pale yellow-beige to bright white though the inner flesh is consistently cream coloured. The texture is fine-grained, while the flavour profile is both sweet and nutty, perfect for a range of culinary uses. Above ground, the parsnip’s foliage resembles that of large celery, with lush, feathery green leaves and robust stems. This hardy, cold-tolerant vegetable thrives in deep, well drained soil, making it a reliable crop for gardeners seeking both beauty and functionality in their harvests.

                                                                                                PLANTING&GROWING

Parsnips are a versatile and hardy vegetable that can thrive in containers or traditional garden beds. If you lack outdoor space, grow parsnips in pots on a balcony or near a sunny window indoors. Choose a container that is at least 8 inches wide with proper drainage holes, as parsnip roots are sensitive and do not tolerate repotting well. Select a suitable container from the start to avoid transplant stress.

Before planting, soak the seeds for several hours or overnight to enhance germination. For indoor starts, disinfect all pots, trays, and seedling covers to prevent damping-off disease. Parsnip seeds require a minimum soil temperature of 41°F (5°C) to germinate, with the ideal temperature being around 53°F (12°C). In the UK, this temperature is typically reached in late April, making it the best time to sow. Parsnips grow well in both full sun and partial shade and prefer neutral to slightly alkaline soil.

Sow one seed every 5cm (2 inches) in rows spaced 45cm (18 inches) apart. Once seedlings emerge, thin them to 20cm (8 inches) apart for optimal growth. Parsnips may take up to 8 weeks to germinate, depending on soil temperatures. Prepare the soil carefully by removing stones, as parsnip roots can split or grow irregularly if they encounter obstructions.

Parsnips are frost-hardy and can be left in the ground over winter. Cover them with 4–6 inches of mulch to keep them in good condition despite freezing temperatures. For long-term planning, avoid planting parsnips in the same spot for at least two years to prevent pest build-up and nutrient depletion. Rotate crops with unrelated plants every 4–5 years to minimize risks from shared pests and diseases, particularly with carrots and parsley.

Parsnips pair well with companion plants such as garlic, onions, potatoes, radishes, peppers, bush beans, and peas. This makes them a practical addition to diverse vegetable beds. With proper care, parsnips can be a robust and rewarding crop throughout the growing season.