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Parsnip Seeds

Parsnip seeds develop into flavorful root vegetables with a sweet, nutty taste, which gets even more intense after the autumn frost. The parsnip plant grows well in direct sun to partial shade. It prefers deep, well-drained, and fertile soil. This is a biennial plant, but can also be grown as an annual. It takes longer to develop than other root crops. Parsnip seeds provide a vegetable rich with nutrients, adding a gourmet touch to dishes.
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Survival Garden Seeds offers high-quality parsnip seeds, with detailed instructions for optimal growth. Our heirloom seeds are chosen carefully for reliable germination, superior growth characteristics, and flavor.

Growing Parsnip Seeds in Your Garden

  • Sweet, nutty roots
  • Requires a full growing season
  • Heirloom, non-GMO seeds
  • Long-storing winter veggie

INTRODUCING PARSNIP SEEDS

Parsnip has been a cooking basic in Europe for a long time. It is highly valued for its versatility and hearty flavor. It can be roasted, mashed, or even used in soups and stews, becoming increasingly sought after in gourmet cooking. Originating from Eurasia, parsnips have adapted to different climates. Today, they are suitable for growth in USDA hardiness zones 2 to 9.

PLANTING PARSNIP SEEDS

Sow your parsnip seeds directly to the garden in early spring, as soon as the soil is workable. They require a deep, stone-free soil. This way, roots can grow long and straight. Plant seeds 1/2 inch deep, spacing them 2 to 3 inches apart in rows. Parsnips take a longer time to germinate than many other vegetables. Often, it will be 2 to 3 weeks before germination. Seeds benefit from consistent soil moisture during this period.

MAINTAINING PARSNIP PLANTS

Parsnips require regular care throughout their growth. Soil should be evenly moist, especially during dry periods, as water supports steady root growth. Thin the seedlings to 3-4 inches apart, making room for the roots to develop. Mulching prevents excessive evaporation and also keeps weeds away. Harvest parsnips after the first frost, which will sweeten the roots. Parsnips can stay in the ground and be harvested through the winter.

Growing parsnips is quite rewarding and provides high-quality fresh produce during the winter months. It takes some time to get to the harvest, but it is worth the effort. This is a delicious, nutritious vegetable, with a unique flavor that will make you realize you’ve picked the right seeds to sow.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are heirloom seeds?

Heirloom seeds are the types of seeds your grandparents grew. These varieties have been passed down from generation to generation. They’re old reliable open-pollinated varieties that aren’t typically grown commercially. Instead, they have a rich history that predates modern breeding techniques. You can learn more about open-pollinated, heirloom, and non-GMO seeds in our Survival Garden Training blog.

How do I know my seeds are fresh?

Every seed packet includes a "packed for" date, and we germination test each seed lot before packaging to ensure you receive viable, high-quality seeds that are ready to grow.

Are your seeds chemically treated?

No, we do not pre-treat our seeds. All of our garden seeds are untreated, open-pollinated, non-GMO, and heirloom varieties. They are kept in temperature-controlled cooler storage until they are packed and shipped to keep them pest and disease-free.

Will your seeds grow in my USDA Hardiness zone?

The seeds in our collections are specifically chosen from varieties that can be successfully grown from Zone 3 to Zone 10 USDA Hardiness Zones. However, individual varieties have specific needs to thrive in different environments. Each seed pack has optimal temperatures for germination and instructions on seed starting. Consult local frost dates to plan your garden and get the most out of your seeds.

What is the shelf life of these garden seeds?

Most seeds remain viable for 3 to 5 years or longer when stored properly. Check your seed packet for specific varieties. For best results, keep your seeds in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Store them in an airtight container in a consistent temperature environment—a refrigerator or cool basement works well. Proper storage helps maintain germination rates and extends seed life well beyond the packed date.

Where are Survival Garden Seeds sourced?

The majority of our seeds are sourced in the United States, with a few exceptions when the seed is difficult to source domestically. Whenever we do have to source outside of the US, we ensure our seeds are safe to grow, non-GMO, heirloom varieties that meet our standards for germination and reliability.

Learn more in the blog

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