Description

Parsnip (Pastinaca sativa) is a biennial root vegetable grown as an annual for its sweet, nutty-flavored, cream-colored taproot. It thrives in cool climates and develops the best flavor after exposure to frost. The plant grows tall with umbel-like yellow flowers in its second year, attracting pollinators and beneficial insects.

🌞💧 Sun and Water Requirements:
- Prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade.
- Requires consistently moist, well-drained soil.
- Deep watering is beneficial to encourage long root growth.

✂️🫘 Methods to Propagate:
- Direct seeding: Sow seeds directly in the garden as they do not transplant well.
- Pre-soaking: Soaking seeds overnight can improve germination.
- Succession planting: Plant every few weeks for an extended harvest.

🧑‍🌾👩‍🌾 When to Harvest:
- Roots are ready for harvest 120-180 days after planting.
- Flavor improves after exposure to frost; best harvested late fall to winter.
- Can be left in the ground and dug up as needed through winter.

Purpose

Parsnip serves multiple permaculture functions:

- Edible: The root is a nutritious, sweet, and starchy vegetable used in various dishes.
- Dynamic Accumulator: Draws up deep nutrients from the soil, making them available for other plants.
- Erosion Control: Deep taproots help stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
- Wildlife Attractor: The flowers provide nectar for pollinators and beneficial insects.