Agustus 09, 2011

A Beginner's Guide To Growing Parsnips

By Susan Morgan


Since the beginning of creation, mankind have aggressively pursued innovative ways of improving agriculture. Due to recent technological advancements, millions are currently able to benefit from mass forms of agriculture. On the other hand, millions of local farmers are also receive large success through utilizing proper methods and techniques. This can be seen through growing parsnips, apples, squash and a variety of fruits and vegetables. Let's consider parsnips.

Let's take a look at how to grow quality parsnips to full potential. These plants are delicate, as full flavor is not present unless the tips are brought to near freezing temperatures. With this in mind, many consider them to be winter vegetables.

Parsnips provide high levels of vitamin c, carbohydrates, fiber, potassium, calcium and a number of necessary vitamins and nutrients. Also, they can be harvested in the spring, following the winter season, depending on your climate. Many have found success in doing this, and experts recommend that harvesting take place before new tops and seed stalks begin growing. If not, roots can become starchy, void of flavor.

In all forms of agriculture, proper preparation is highly needed. Soil preparation is critical to the success of the crop. With this crop, diligently till your soil prior to planting. Furthermore, adding quality fertilized composts is another tool proven to increase quality. Also, young seeds are recommended, one year old and younger. Planting should be done in warm soil.

Unfortunately, germination rates are low for this species. With this in mind, insiders recommend that planters plant seeds at a depth of an half of an inch and plant about three seeds at a time. Full germination may take up to 20 days to complete, but by lightly rolling the soil, you may help increase germination rates.

If germinated fully, seedlings will be seen. After this, you should thin your seedlings to about three inches apart. Furthermore, if planting in rows, place rows approximately 20 inches apart from one another. On the other hand, if you're planting seedlings, it's highly recommended that you plant them at even larger spacing. In addition, partially shaded and or fully sunned areas can help improve growth. Only highly fertilized soil should be utilized, with a decent soil depth.

Oftentimes, rainfall can be scarce, resulting in dried soil. When this happens, water your crops weekly. Various items such as straw and wood chip mulch can also be added in order to assist in moisture retention. In addition, weeds are typical problems for various types of plants. They should be removed immediately to allow the parsnips to get maximum nutrition.

Many have chosen to wait until after they have experienced three weeks of these temperatures. After harvesting, experts recommend that the remaining stalks be clipped off.




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Read some of Susan's favorite articles about growing parsnips and how to grow parsnips on these related sites.


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