Yes. Parsnips are a hardy, full-season, winter vegetable. Their high food value and eating quality are greatly improved by storing at near-freezing temperatures, which increases the sugar content. This crop stores well and is therefore available for eating from late fall to late winter. Parsnips require a long growing time, from 100 to 110 days. One 20- to 25-foot row of parsnips is usually ample for a family's needs.
Parsnip seed retains its vitality for only about one year, so never plant old seed. The seed is slow to germinate, and it may be difficult to get a good stand if soils are heavy and moisture is low. Hasten germination and emergence by (1) sowing a few radish seeds along with the parsnips - they will help break the soil crust and allow parsnip seedlings to emerge and also provide a double crop; (2) covering the seed with leaf mold, ashes, or sandy soil; and (3) firming the covering material over the row and watering with a watering can or spray nozzle. The seed should be planted 1/2 to 3/4 inch deep from June 15 to July 1 (zones 6 & 7) in rows spaced 18 inches apart, with seeds 2 to 3 inches apart in the row. When plants are grown too far apart, the roots become large and the edible portion has a woody, fibrous texture.
