Parsnips 'White Gem'

Organic 'White Gem' Parsnip Seeds

Sowing schedule: ‘White Gem’ can be sown from April to the beginning of June – but for best results sow between mid-April and mid-May.

Sowing depth: 1-2cm

Planting distance: Sow in drills 30-40cm apart. Thin to 5-10 cm between plants.

Germination: Parsnip seeds can be very slow to germinate. Seeds can germinate from as low as 5°C but will be far more successful once soil temperature has reached at least 10°C.

Growing conditions: Parsnips thrive in full sun and fertile, deep soil with plenty organic matter and a fine tilth. While parsnips usually prefer lighter soils, 'White Gem' can tolerate clay soils better than many other varieties. Freshly manured plots are not appropriate for parsnips due to the high nitrogen content which can cause forking of the root and excessive leaf growth at the expense of the root. Well-rotted compost or all-purpose balanced fertilisers such as Topmix Complete Organic Plant Food 4-3-7 or Biodigester Organic Plant Food 4-3-7 are a better option for parsnips.

Harvest and storage: Plants reach maturity in 200-220 days. Once mature, they can then be lifted and stored or left in the ground and harvested as needed. Parsnips are a hardy vegetable and more than just tolerating cold weather, a frost can help to develop their flavour.

Number of seeds: Each packet contains approximately 500 seeds, enough for 400 plants.