Hollow Crown Parsnip (Heirloom, 100 Days)

The Hollow Crown Parsnip is an 1850 Heirloom. Also known as Guernsey. Per 1936 D. M. Ferry: “An excellent variety for the table. The roots are long with smooth white skin, uniform in shape, tender, and of the best quality. The variety is easily distinguished by the leaves growing from the depression on top of the crown of the root.” 

250 seeds

Please note that germination rates for parsnips decline rapidly. We strongly encourage you to purchase new seed each growing season.

PLANTING

Pastinaca sativa

Germination: 14-21 days

Germination Temperature: Optimum soil temperatures 60-65ºF. 

Seed Sowing Depth: 1/2” deep

Sowing Outdoors: Mid spring. Starting 2-3 weeks before last frost. Sow 1/2-1" apart, thin to 2-3” apart.  The soil moisture should be maintained regularly until germination, letting soil dry out during this period may result in lower germination.

How much does a packet plant: 8-12 foot row

Harvest: The flavor is best after a few frosts. Harvest after a few frosts or leave them in the ground for the winter. Cover with a thick layer of mulch and harvest in the spring when the ground thaws. Dig out before tops start regrowing. 

Tips:  The Hollow Crown Parsnip prefers a loose soil, free of rubble. Sow a few radish seeds with the parsnips to help mark the rows. This is helpful because they take 3 weeks to germinate. Requires adequate water, 1” per week for optimum growth. Using a row cover helps to maintain moisture for germination. Keep well weeded. An excess of nitrogen in the soil cause the roots to become hairy.