July 15, 2020 - Garden and Allotment Tips and Advice

Freezing Parsnips – How to guide

December 7, 2024July 15, 2020 by Gardening With Ben

Freezing Parsnips: A Complete How-To Guide

Introduction

Parsnips are a versatile and nutritious root vegetable that can be enjoyed throughout the year. Freezing is one of the best ways to preserve their flavor and nutrients, allowing you to enjoy this hearty vegetable long after the harvest season. Whether you’re freezing parsnips from your garden or a surplus from the market, this guide will provide all the information you need to freeze parsnips effectively. Learn how to prepare, blanch, and store parsnips so they stay fresh and ready for your favorite recipes.

Why Freeze Parsnips?

Freezing parsnips offers several benefits:

Long-Term Preservation: Keeps parsnips fresh for up to 12 months.
Convenience: Prepped parsnips are easy to use in soups, stews, and other dishes.
Reduced Waste: Prevents surplus parsnips from going to waste.
Seasonal Flexibility: Allows you to enjoy parsnips even when they are out of season.

Allotment and Kitchen Garden Book

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Click to check the book on Amazon

You can check out all the allotment and kitchen garden books we recommend here.

1. Preparing Parsnips for Freezing

Preparation is key to ensuring your frozen parsnips maintain their quality:

Step 1: Select Fresh Parsnips

Choose firm, unblemished parsnips for freezing. Avoid parsnips that are soft, wrinkled, or discolored.

Step 2: Wash Thoroughly

Rinse parsnips under cold water to remove dirt and debris. Use a brush to scrub away any stubborn soil.

Step 3: Peel and Trim

Peel the skin using a vegetable peeler, then trim the ends and remove any damaged spots.

Step 4: Cut Into Desired Shapes

Slice, dice, or chop parsnips into pieces that suit your preferred cooking style.

2. Blanching Parsnips Before Freezing

Blanching is an essential step to preserve the texture, flavor, and color of parsnips:

What is Blanching?

Blanching involves boiling parsnips briefly, then cooling them rapidly in ice water.

Step 1: Boil Water

Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil.

Step 2: Blanch Parsnips

Add parsnip pieces to the boiling water. Blanch small pieces for 2 minutes and larger pieces for 3–4 minutes.

Step 3: Ice Bath

Immediately transfer the blanched parsnips to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Let them cool for the same amount of time they were blanched.

Step 4: Drain and Dry

Drain the parsnips in a colander and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.

3. How to Freeze Parsnips

After blanching, it’s time to freeze the parsnips:

Step 1: Spread on a Baking Sheet

Arrange the parsnip pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents clumping.

Step 2: Pre-Freeze

Place the baking sheet in the freezer for 1–2 hours, or until the parsnip pieces are firm.

Step 3: Transfer to Freezer Bags or Containers

Once pre-frozen, transfer the parsnips to airtight freezer bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

Step 4: Label and Store

Label each bag or container with the date and contents. Store in the freezer for up to 12 months.

4. Using Frozen Parsnips

Frozen parsnips are versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes:

1. No Thawing Needed:

Add frozen parsnips directly to soups, stews, or roasts without thawing.

2. Roasting:

Toss frozen parsnips in oil and seasonings, then roast in the oven until golden and crispy.

3. Mashed Parsnips:

Boil frozen parsnips until soft, then mash with butter and seasonings.

5. Tips for Freezing Parsnips

1. Freeze in Portions:

Divide parsnips into portions based on your typical meal sizes to avoid thawing more than you need.

2. Avoid Overcooking During Blanching:

Over-blanched parsnips can become mushy when reheated.

3. Use Vacuum Sealing:

A vacuum sealer can extend the storage life of frozen parsnips by reducing air exposure.

4. Check Freezer Temperature:

Keep your freezer at -18°C (0°F) for optimal storage conditions.

6. Common Freezing Mistakes to Avoid

1. Skipping Blanching:

Unblanched parsnips may lose texture, flavor, and nutrients over time.

2. Freezing in Large Chunks:

Large pieces take longer to freeze and may result in uneven cooking later.

3. Using Poor-Quality Bags:

Thin or improperly sealed bags can lead to freezer burn.

4. Forgetting Labels:

Unlabeled bags make it hard to identify contents or track storage time.

Conclusion

Freezing parsnips is a simple and effective way to enjoy their sweet and nutty flavor year-round. By following the steps in this guide, you can ensure your parsnips remain fresh and delicious, ready to be added to a variety of dishes. Whether you’re preparing for a busy season or preserving a bumper crop from your garden, freezing parsnips is a skill every home cook should master.

Gardening With Ben Podcasts

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Don’t miss out on the latest episode below, where Ben shares his insights on what to plant this month, how to prepare your soil, and creative ways to make the most of the colder seasons. It’s the perfect companion for your next cup of tea or a relaxing moment in your gardening shed.

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Growing Parsnips – Hints and tips

December 7, 2024July 15, 2020 by Gardening With Ben

Growing Parsnips: Hints and Tips for a Bountiful Harvest

Introduction

Parsnips, with their sweet and nutty flavor, are a versatile and nutritious root vegetable that can elevate any dish. While they are easy to grow, successful parsnip cultivation requires patience, good soil preparation, and a few insider tips to ensure a healthy harvest. This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about growing parsnips, from sowing seeds to storing your crop, along with answers to common questions about this cool-weather crop.

Why Grow Parsnips?

Parsnips offer several benefits for gardeners:

Nutritional Value: Rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
Flavor: Their unique taste improves after exposure to frost.
Long Growing Season: Perfect for gardeners who enjoy slow-maturing crops.
Low Maintenance: Parsnips require minimal care once established.

Allotment and Kitchen Garden Book

Click to check the book on Amazon

You can check out all the allotment and kitchen garden books we recommend here.

1. Choosing the Right Variety of Parsnips

The first step in growing parsnips is selecting the right variety for your needs. Popular choices include:

1. ‘Gladiator’:

Known for its resistance to canker and smooth, long roots.

2. ‘Tender and True’:

A classic heirloom variety with excellent flavor.

3. ‘Javelin’:

Ideal for heavy soils and produces uniform roots.

4. ‘Hollow Crown’:

A traditional variety with a sweet, nutty taste.

2. When to Plant Parsnips

Timing is crucial for parsnip cultivation:

1. Early Spring:

Sow seeds from March to May when the soil temperature is above 10°C (50°F).

2. Long Growing Season:

Parsnips take 16–20 weeks to mature, making them a long-season crop.

3. Frost Exposure:

Leave parsnips in the ground until after the first frost to enhance their sweetness.

3. Preparing the Soil for Parsnips

Parsnips thrive in deep, loose, and fertile soil. Follow these steps for soil preparation:

1. Remove Stones:

Clear the soil of rocks and debris to prevent forked roots.

2. Loosen the Soil:

Dig to a depth of at least 30 cm (12 inches) to allow roots to grow straight.

3. Add Organic Matter:

Incorporate well-rotted compost or manure to enrich the soil. Avoid fresh manure, as it can cause deformities.

4. pH Level:

Aim for a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH (6.0–7.0).

4. How to Sow Parsnip Seeds

Parsnip seeds require careful handling due to their slow germination and short viability:

Step 1: Sow Directly:

Sow seeds directly into the prepared bed, as parsnips dislike transplanting.

Step 2: Create Rows:

Space rows 30 cm (12 inches) apart and sow seeds thinly, about 1 cm deep.

Step 3: Cover Lightly:

Cover seeds with a fine layer of soil and water gently.

Step 4: Patience is Key:

Germination can take 2–3 weeks, so keep the soil moist and weed-free.

5. Caring for Parsnips

Once germinated, parsnips require minimal attention:

1. Watering:

Water consistently, especially during dry spells, to prevent woody roots.

2. Thinning:

Thin seedlings to 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) apart when they are 5 cm tall.

3. Weeding:

Keep the area weed-free to reduce competition for nutrients.

4. Mulching:

Apply organic mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

6. Common Problems When Growing Parsnips

1. Poor Germination:

Cause: Old seeds or cold soil.
Solution: Use fresh seeds and sow when the soil warms up.

2. Forked Roots:

Cause: Stony soil or fresh manure.
Solution: Prepare soil thoroughly and avoid using fresh manure.

3. Canker:

Cause: Fungal infection, often in wet conditions.
Solution: Grow resistant varieties and avoid waterlogging.

4. Pests:

Problem: Carrot flies may damage roots.
Solution: Use fine mesh or fleece to protect plants.

7. Harvesting Parsnips

Knowing when and how to harvest ensures the best flavor and texture:

1. Timing:

Harvest parsnips 16–20 weeks after sowing, or leave them in the ground until after the first frost for sweeter roots.

2. Tools:

Use a garden fork to lift parsnips carefully, avoiding damage to the roots.

3. Storage:

Store parsnips in a cool, dark place or in a box of damp sand to keep them fresh.

8. Using Parsnips in the Kitchen

Parsnips are versatile and can be used in various dishes:

1. Roasted Parsnips:

Toss with olive oil, honey, and seasoning for a delicious side dish.

2. Soups and Stews:

Add diced parsnips for a sweet, earthy flavor.

3. Mash:

Combine parsnips with potatoes for a creamy mash.

4. Crisps:

Thinly slice and bake or fry for a healthy snack.

Conclusion

Growing parsnips is a rewarding experience for gardeners who enjoy slow-growing crops with exceptional flavor. By following the tips in this guide, you can cultivate healthy parsnip plants and enjoy a bountiful harvest. With a little patience and the right care, your parsnips will thrive, providing sweet and nutty roots that are perfect for a variety of culinary creations.

Gardening With Ben Podcasts

Dwarf French Beans – How to grow

December 7, 2024July 15, 2020 by Gardening With Ben

Dwarf French Beans: How to Grow Them Successfully

Introduction

Dwarf French beans are a popular choice for gardeners due to their compact size, quick growth, and prolific yield. These low-maintenance plants are ideal for small gardens, raised beds, and even containers, producing tender, flavorful pods perfect for a variety of dishes. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gardener, this comprehensive guide will take you through everything you need to know about growing dwarf French beans, from planting to harvesting.

Why Grow Dwarf French Beans?

Dwarf French beans offer several benefits that make them a favorite among gardeners:

Space-Saving: Compact plants require less space, ideal for small gardens or containers.
Fast-Growing: Mature in just 8–10 weeks, providing a quick harvest.
Prolific Yield: Produce numerous pods per plant.
Versatile Use: Great for fresh eating, freezing, or adding to recipes.
Easy to Grow: Require minimal maintenance and are beginner-friendly.

Allotment and Kitchen Garden Book

Click to check the book on Amazon

You can check out all the allotment and kitchen garden books we recommend here.

1. Choosing the Right Dwarf French Bean Varieties

There are many dwarf French bean varieties to choose from, each with unique characteristics:

1. ‘Ferrari’:

A compact, bushy variety with tender, stringless pods.

2. ‘Safari’:

Produces slender, dark green pods perfect for salads.

3. ‘Tendergreen’:

Known for its smooth texture and excellent flavor.

4. ‘Purple Teepee’:

Offers vibrant purple pods that turn green when cooked.

2. When to Plant Dwarf French Beans

Timing is crucial to ensure successful growth:

1. Outdoors:

Sow seeds directly in the soil from late May to early July, after the last frost.

2. Indoors:

Start seeds indoors in April for an earlier harvest, transplanting them outdoors in May.

3. Succession Planting:

Sow seeds every two weeks for a continuous harvest throughout the season.

3. Preparing the Soil for Dwarf French Beans

Dwarf French beans thrive in well-prepared soil:

1. Choose a Sunny Spot:

Beans require full sun for optimal growth.

2. Enrich the Soil:

Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility.

3. Ensure Good Drainage:

Avoid waterlogged soil, which can lead to root rot.

4. Test the pH:

Beans prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0–7.0).

4. How to Plant Dwarf French Beans

Follow these steps for planting:

Step 1: Prepare the Bed:

Rake the soil to remove stones and debris.

Step 2: Sow the Seeds:

Plant seeds 2–3 cm deep and 15–20 cm apart in rows spaced 45 cm apart.

Step 3: Water Thoroughly:

Keep the soil moist to encourage germination.

Step 4: Thin Seedlings:

Thin out weaker seedlings, leaving the healthiest plants.

5. Caring for Dwarf French Beans

1. Watering:

Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Avoid overwatering to prevent fungal diseases.

2. Mulching:

Apply mulch around the plants to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

3. Feeding:

Beans are light feeders but benefit from a balanced liquid fertilizer during flowering.

4. Staking:

While dwarf varieties don’t require full trellises, light staking can provide extra support.

6. Common Problems and Solutions

1. Slugs and Snails:

Problem: Eat young seedlings and leaves.
Solution: Use barriers like copper tape or organic pellets.

2. Aphids:

Problem: Suck sap from leaves, causing wilting.
Solution: Spray plants with a solution of water and a few drops of dish soap.

3. Powdery Mildew:

Problem: Causes white, powdery spots on leaves.
Solution: Improve air circulation and avoid overhead watering.

4. Poor Germination:

Problem: Seeds fail to sprout in cold or waterlogged soil.
Solution: Wait until the soil warms and ensure proper drainage.

7. Harvesting Dwarf French Beans

Dwarf French beans are ready to harvest about 8–10 weeks after planting:

1. Size Matters:

Harvest beans when they are 10–15 cm long and tender.

2. Check Regularly:

Pick beans every 2–3 days to encourage continued production.

3. Use Scissors:

Snip beans off the plant to avoid damaging the stems.

4. Leave Some Pods:

Allow a few pods to mature fully if you wish to save seeds for next season.

8. Using and Storing Dwarf French Beans

Freshly harvested beans are best enjoyed immediately but can also be preserved:

1. Cooking:

Steam, sauté, or boil beans for use in salads, stir-fries, or side dishes.

2. Freezing:

Blanch beans in boiling water for 2 minutes, then freeze for up to 12 months.

3. Pickling:

Make tangy pickled beans for long-term storage.

4. Saving Seeds:

Dry mature pods and store seeds in a cool, dry place for the next planting season.

Conclusion

Dwarf French beans are a fantastic addition to any garden, offering a quick-growing, high-yielding crop that’s both versatile and delicious. With proper care, they can thrive in a variety of settings, from traditional garden beds to containers on a balcony. By following this guide, you’ll be well on your way to growing healthy plants and enjoying a bountiful harvest of fresh, tender beans.

Freezing Parsnips: A Complete How-To Guide

Introduction

Why Freeze Parsnips?

Allotment and Kitchen Garden Book

1. Preparing Parsnips for Freezing

2. Blanching Parsnips Before Freezing

3. How to Freeze Parsnips

4. Using Frozen Parsnips

5. Tips for Freezing Parsnips

6. Common Freezing Mistakes to Avoid

Conclusion

Top 10 Questions and Answers

Gardening With Ben Podcasts

Growing Parsnips: Hints and Tips for a Bountiful Harvest

Introduction

Why Grow Parsnips?

Allotment and Kitchen Garden Book

1. Choosing the Right Variety of Parsnips

2. When to Plant Parsnips

3. Preparing the Soil for Parsnips

4. How to Sow Parsnip Seeds

5. Caring for Parsnips

6. Common Problems When Growing Parsnips

7. Harvesting Parsnips

8. Using Parsnips in the Kitchen

Conclusion

Top 10 Questions and Answers

Gardening With Ben Podcasts

Dwarf French Beans: How to Grow Them Successfully

Introduction

Why Grow Dwarf French Beans?

Allotment and Kitchen Garden Book

1. Choosing the Right Dwarf French Bean Varieties

2. When to Plant Dwarf French Beans

3. Preparing the Soil for Dwarf French Beans

4. How to Plant Dwarf French Beans

5. Caring for Dwarf French Beans

6. Common Problems and Solutions

7. Harvesting Dwarf French Beans

8. Using and Storing Dwarf French Beans

Conclusion

Top 10 Questions and Answers

Gardening With Ben Podcasts