1# HARRIS EARLY PARSNIP SEED

Harris Early Parsnip Seed (Pastinaca sativa ‘Harris Early’) is a dependable, early‑maturing parsnip variety valued for smooth roots and sweet flavor.

🌱 Variety Overview

• Type: Parsnip (root vegetable)

• Root Shape: Long, smooth, tapered

• Length: 10–12 inches

• Days to Maturity: ~95–110 days (early for parsnips)

• Flavor: Mild, sweet—especially after frost

• Use: Roasting, soups, purees, stews, storage

✅ Why Grow Harris Early

• Earlier harvest than many parsnip varieties

• Uniform, straight roots

• Excellent cold tolerance

• Improves in sweetness after light frost

• Stores well in soil or root cellar

A classic choice for home gardens and fall harvests.

🌤️ Growing Conditions

• Season: Cool‑season, long‑growing crop

• Sun: Full sun (6–8 hours)

• Soil: Deep, loose, stone‑free soil

• Soil pH: 6.0–7.5

• Temperature: Best growth at 60–70°F

⚠️ Avoid fresh manure—causes forked roots.

🌾 Planting Instructions

• When to Plant:

  • Early spring as soon as soil can be worked

  • Parsnips do not transplant well—direct sow only

• How to Plant:

  • Depth: ½ inch

  • Spacing: Sow thickly, thin to 3–4 inches apart

  • Rows: 18–24 inches apart

⏳ Germination is slow (14–28+ days). Keep soil consistently moist.

💧 Care & Maintenance

• Water regularly during early root development

• Mulch lightly to retain moisture

• Thin early to prevent misshapen roots

• Keep beds weed‑free—parsnips compete poorly

🥕 Harvesting

• Harvest in late fall after several light frosts for best flavor

• Roots can remain in the ground until needed if soil doesn’t freeze solid

• Lift carefully to avoid snapping long roots

❄️ Storage

• Leave in ground with mulch

• Or store at 32–40°F with high humidity (sand or perforated bags)