How to grow Parsnip in the UK
Pastinaca sativa
Parsnip (Pastinaca sativa) is a vegetable that grows well in UK gardens. Slow to germinate (3-4 weeks) — use fresh seed each year. Frost sweetens roots — leave in ground. This guide covers when and how to sow Parsnip, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
When to sow & grow Parsnip
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan Harvest | Feb Sow · Harvest | Mar Sow · Harvest | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct Harvest | Nov Harvest | Dec Harvest |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Deep, stone-free soil
- Soil pH
- 6.5–7.0
- Position
- Open, sunny site
- Sowing depth
- 1 cm
- Spacing
- Thin to 15 cm, rows 30 cm
- Sowing
- Sow direct Mar–May; fresh seed only, slow to germinate
- Growing
- Keep weed-free and evenly watered; mulch to hold moisture
- Harvest & upkeep
- Leave in the ground; flavour sweetens after frost
- Watch for
- Carrot root fly, canker
Companion planting for Parsnip
Keep apart from:
Add Parsnip to your free 12-month plan and get watering & sowing reminders — no sign-up needed.
Parsnip FAQs
When should I sow Parsnip in the UK?
In the UK, sow Parsnip in February, March. Sowing across these months gives the plant the right soil temperature and day length to establish well.
What should you not plant near Parsnip?
Keep Parsnip away from Carrot, which can compete with it or share pests and diseases.
How much sun does Parsnip need?
Parsnip prefers full sun (6+ hrs direct).
When is Parsnip ready to harvest?
Parsnip is typically ready to harvest in January, February, March, October, November, December in the UK.
Is Parsnip easy to grow?
Moderate. Slow to germinate (3-4 weeks) — use fresh seed each year. Frost sweetens roots — leave in ground.