Pastinaca sativa
We carry this. Available at our St. Augustine nursery; call (904) 471-0440 to confirm current stock.
Parsnip (Pastinaca sativa) is a cool-season biennial root vegetable grown for its sweet, creamy-white taproot. In NE Florida (zone 9b) it is planted October–November for a winter harvest, as the heat of spring and summer prevents successful production. Caution: the sap of wild forms causes phytophotodermatitis; cultivated types are far lower risk. Starting at $3.39.
Parsnip requires full sun — at least 6 hours per day. In NE Florida it is grown as a cool-season winter crop (October–February); Florida's long summers are too hot for parsnip.
Keep soil evenly moist during the growing period. Inconsistent moisture causes forked or cracked roots. Parsnip is grown in Florida only in winter and benefits from drip or soaker-hose irrigation to maintain steady soil moisture without wetting foliage.
Parsnip needs deep (12+ inches), loose, stone-free, well-drained sandy loam for straight root development. Amend NE Florida sandy soil with compost before planting; incorporate a balanced vegetable fertilizer at planting and side-dress with low-nitrogen fertilizer once leaves are established.
Shares 4 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, and pollinator-friendly.
Shares 4 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, and pollinator-friendly.
Shares 4 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, and pollinator-friendly.
Shares 4 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, and pollinator-friendly.
Shares 4 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, and pollinator-friendly.
Shares 4 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, and pollinator-friendly.
Parsnip is a plant for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 12-18 in foliage; 3-5 ft when flowering × 6-9 in.
