Parsnip
Pastinaca sativa
Also known asGarden parsnip · Wild parsnip (cultivated) · Pastinake · Chirivía
Environment
The bounded range this crop tolerates.
Climate and zones
- USDA zones
- 2–9 (winter low around -46°C)
- Frost
- very hardy (survives deep cold)
- Season
- cool (spring/fall)
Growing systems
Root mass: moderate.
Growing media
| Medium | pH effect | Retention | Bacterial surface |
|---|---|---|---|
| Soil-based mix (Potting soil) | varies | high | high |
| Coco coir (Coconut coir) | slightly acidic | high | moderate |
Nutrient demand by stage
NPK ratios are relative weights. EC targets shift through the plant's life.
| Stage | N | P | K | EC (mS/cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| seedling | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0.8 |
| vegetative | 2 | 1 | 3 | 1.6 |
Companion-growing notes
- Heavy uptake of potassium. Co-grown crops with the same demand will end up deficient even at "correct" EC.
Aquaponics suitability
Compatible
Fish waste provides enough nitrogen for healthy growth. Supplemental potassium, calcium, and iron may still be needed depending on fish stocking density.
Care notes
A deep-rooted crop requiring substantial growing medium depth. The taproot grows 20–35 cm long (some varieties exceed 40 cm), requiring deep media beds or very tall containers (40 cm of loose, stone-free substrate). Any obstruction or compaction causes forking. EC 1.5-2.5 mS/cm. pH 6.0-7.0. Temperature: 10–22°C (cool-season; heat above 25°C causes poor root quality). Moderate light (DLI 12-18 mol/m2/day). Long season: 100-130 days from seed. Direct seed (parsnips do not transplant well because the taproot is the product). Seed viability declines rapidly; use fresh seed from the current season. Germination is slow (2-3 weeks at best, sometimes longer). Thin seedlings to 8–10 cm spacing. Frost exposure before harvest improves sweetness. Short-rooted varieties ('Gladiator', 'Lancer') are more practical for shallower media beds than traditional long-rooted types. The tops are mildly toxic (they can cause phytophotodermatitis, a skin reaction when sap contacts skin in sunlight); wear gloves when handling foliage.