The Best 20 Varieties of Parsnip to Grow: Tips, Facts, and Information

Parsnips (Pastinaca sativa) are a nutritious root vegetable closely related to carrots and parsley. Known for their sweet, nutty flavor, especially after a frost, parsnips are versatile and can be used in various dishes, from soups and stews to roasts and purées. Growing parsnips requires patience, as they thrive in cool weather and take several months to mature. Here’s a look at the best 20 varieties of parsnips to grow, along with helpful tips and interesting facts about each.

1. Hollow Crown

Facts: This classic variety has a sweet flavor and a hollow center, making it easier to clean and prepare.
Tips: Sow directly into well-prepared soil and harvest after a frost for maximum sweetness.

2. Gladiator

Facts: Known for its high yield and resistance to disease, Gladiator produces long, straight roots.
Tips: Ideal for heavier soils; requires consistent moisture for optimal growth.

3. White Gem

Facts: This variety has a smooth, white skin and a tender, sweet taste.
Tips: Grows well in cooler climates and is perfect for soups and purées.

4. Avon

Facts: A vigorous grower with high-quality roots, Avon is great for both culinary and market gardening.
Tips: Harvest in late autumn for the best flavor, as the cold enhances sweetness.

5. Tender and True

Facts: This variety is prized for its creamy texture and rich flavor, making it perfect for mashing.
Tips: Requires deep, loose soil to develop properly; regular watering is essential.

6. Student

Facts: Known for its excellent flavor and good storage qualities, Student produces smooth, long roots.
Tips: Ideal for late autumn harvest; plant in well-drained soil.

7. Piper

Facts: This early-maturing variety has a strong flavor and is less prone to bolting.
Tips: Suitable for succession planting; harvest young for tender roots.

8. Sweet Horizon

Facts: This variety has a naturally sweet flavor, making it a favorite for roasting.
Tips: Grows best in well-drained, nutrient-rich soil.

9. Lancer

Facts: Known for its long, tapering roots and excellent flavor, Lancer is a popular choice for home gardens.
Tips: Requires consistent watering; ideal for cooler climates.

10. Duchess

Facts: This variety produces smooth, uniform roots with a mild flavor, perfect for culinary uses.
Tips: Harvest in late autumn for the best taste; ideal for freezing.

11. Thelma

Facts: A fast-growing variety that produces short, stout roots with a sweet flavor.
Tips: Great for smaller gardens or containers; prefers full sun.

12. Cobham Improved

Facts: This heirloom variety is known for its rich, sweet flavor and good storage capabilities.
Tips: Best planted in well-drained soil and harvested in the fall.

13. Parsnip Champion

Facts: A hardy variety with a strong flavor, ideal for both home gardens and commercial production.
Tips: Space plants adequately to avoid overcrowding and ensure good airflow.

14. Albion

Facts: This variety is resistant to disease and produces high-quality roots with a sweet taste.
Tips: Harvest after frost for maximum sweetness; suitable for heavy soils.

15. Giant of Tewkesbury

Facts: Known for its large size and robust flavor, this variety can grow quite large if conditions are right.
Tips: Requires deep, fertile soil and plenty of moisture.

16. Javelin

Facts: This hybrid variety produces uniform, smooth roots with a sweet flavor.
Tips: Thrives in cooler weather; best planted in early spring.

17. Parsnip White Gem

Facts: A smooth-skinned variety with a creamy texture and a subtle sweetness.
Tips: Ideal for mashing or roasting; prefers well-drained soil.

18. Terror

Facts: A vigorous grower that produces thick, tapered roots with a sweet flavor.
Tips: Best harvested in late autumn for maximum sweetness.

19. Golden Ball

Facts: A unique round variety known for its sweet, nutty flavor.
Tips: Perfect for smaller gardens and yields a good harvest.

20. Spanish Black

Facts: This variety is recognized for its dark skin and robust flavor, ideal for cooking.
Tips: Best grown in well-drained soil and harvested young for the best taste.

Common Questions About Growing Parsnips

Q: When is the best time to plant parsnips?
A: Parsnips should be planted in early spring as soon as the soil is workable, or in late summer for a fall harvest.

Q: How much sunlight do parsnips need?
A: Parsnips prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially in warmer climates.

Q: How do I care for parsnip plants?
A: Keep the soil consistently moist and weed-free. Mulching can help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Q: Can I grow parsnips in containers?
A: Yes, parsnips can be grown in deep containers (at least 12 inches) with good drainage for their roots.

Q: What pests should I watch for when growing parsnips?
A: Common pests include root maggots and aphids. Regular monitoring and using organic pest control methods can help manage these issues.