Hollow Crown Parsnip: A Root Vegetable Worth Growing

Hollow Crown parsnip is a classic heirloom variety prized for its sweet, tender roots and reliable performance in home gardens. This long-season crop rewards patient gardeners with creamy, flavorful vegetables that improve in taste after exposure to frost.

Planting and Growing

Hollow Crown parsnips prefer cool-season growing conditions and full sun. Sow seeds directly into the garden in early spring or mid-summer for fall harvest, as they require a long growing season of 120 to 140 days. Plant seeds in loose, well-draining soil free of rocks and debris, which can cause forked or misshapen roots. Space seeds about 2 inches apart and thin seedlings to 3 to 4 inches once they've sprouted. Keep soil consistently moist during germination, as parsnip seeds can be slow to sprout.

Soil Preparation

Success with Hollow Crown parsnips starts with proper soil preparation. Work the soil deeply—at least 12 inches—and remove any stones or compacted areas. Parsnips thrive in slightly acidic to neutral soil with good organic matter. Avoid fresh manure, which can cause root splitting. A balanced fertilizer applied at planting time supports steady growth without excessive foliage.

Harvesting and Storage

Parsnips can be harvested once they reach 8 to 10 inches long, typically in late fall or early winter. Many gardeners prefer to wait until after the first frost, as cold temperatures convert starches to sugars, enhancing sweetness. Harvest by loosening soil around the root and gently pulling. Store roots in a cool, humid location or leave them in the ground under a thick mulch layer for extended freshness.

Culinary Uses

Hollow Crown parsnips are versatile in the kitchen. Roast them until caramelized, add them to soups and stews, or mash them like potatoes. Their natural sweetness makes them a delicious addition to both savory and slightly sweet dishes.

In Summary

The Hollow Crown Parsnip (Pastinaca sativa) has a 100-year history as a delicious, hardy, versatile root vegetable. This relative to Carrots grows to 10"-12" with a smooth, white, tender root. Eaten raw, it’s nutty and sweet, turning buttery and slightly spicy when cooked. Hardy to frosts and freezes, which sweetens the flavor. Try them roasted or puréed and topped with Parmesan cheese.

• Sweet, nutty flavor
• Tender and buttery
• Sweeter after a frost
• Good fresh and cooked

Good companion plants: Anise, Bush Bean, Garlic, Lettuce, Onion, Oregano, Pea, Radish, Rosemary, Sage, Tomato, Wormwood

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Pastinaca sativa
• Depth to plant seeds: 1/4" deep
• Spacing between plants: 2"-3" apart
• Spacing between rows: 18"-24" apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 10-28 days
• Germination soil temps: 50F-75F
• Soil needs: 6.0-7.0 pH
• Sun needs: Full sun, part shade
• Frost tolerant: Yes
• Planting season: Spring, fall
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 9 plants per sq. ft.
• Days to maturity: 100-120 days