General Appearance
Pastinaca sativa L., commonly known as parsnip, is a biennial plant that belongs to the Apiaceae family. The plant can grow up to 1-2 meters tall, with a thick, fleshy root that is cream-colored or yellowish-white in appearance. The leaves of the parsnip plant are pinnate, with each leaf having several leaflets that are oval, toothed, and hairy on the underside.
Origin and Distribution
Parsnip is native to the Mediterranean region but has since spread to different parts of the world. The plant is widely distributed in Europe, Asia, and North America, with regions such as the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Germany being the main producers of parsnips.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as parsnip, white turnip-rooted parsley, or Eastern parsnip. In some regions, it goes by the name of "pastnip," "snip," or "Hollow Crown."
Uses
Parsnip has several uses, both culinary and medicinal. The root of the plant is edible, with a sweet, nutty flavor that makes it ideal for use in stews, soups, and casseroles. Parsnip is a rich source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, folate, and potassium.
Medicinally, pastinaca sativa has been used to treat various ailments such as asthma, coughs, and colds. The plant has also been used as a diuretic, laxative, and as a remedy for arthritis, rheumatism, and gout.
Light Requirements
Pastinaca sativa L. requires full sunlight to grow optimally. It is a sun-loving plant that thrives in bright light and warm temperatures. It needs at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day to grow properly.
Temperature Requirements
Pastinaca sativa L. can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. However, it grows best in warm temperatures between 18-24°C (65-75°F) during the day and 10-15°C (50-60°F) during the night. Temperatures below 10°C (50°F) can slow down growth and temperatures above 27°C (80°F) can cause the plants to bolt and go to seed prematurely.
Soil Requirements
The ideal soil type for Pastinaca sativa L. is a well-draining, loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers a soil pH between 6.0-7.0. It can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soils. The addition of compost, aged manure, or other organic matter to the soil can help improve soil fertility and structure, which will aid in the growth of the plant.
It is also important to note that Pastinaca sativa L. has a long taproot, so the soil should be deep enough to allow for its proper growth.
Cultivation Methods
Pastinaca sativa L., also known as the parsnip, is a biennial plant that thrives in cool climates and moist soils. It is easy to grow and can be cultivated in most regions of the world.
The soil should be well-draining, loose, and free of rocks and debris. Prepare the soil by tilling it to at least 12 inches deep and work in a good amount of organic matter such as compost, aged manure, or leaf mold.
Plant the seeds about 1/2 inch deep and 2-3 inches apart. Keep the soil consistently moist until the seeds germinate, which can take up to three weeks.
Once the seedlings are about 4 inches tall, thin them out to 6-8 inches apart to allow room for growth.
Watering Needs
Parsnips need consistent moisture to grow properly, but they do not like to be in standing water. Water deeply once a week, or more often during hot, dry weather.
Do not let the soil dry out completely, as this can cause the parsnips to develop a woody texture and become unsavory.
Fertilization
It is recommended to apply a balanced fertilizer with a low nitrogen content at the time of planting. Some gardeners also apply a second application of fertilizer about halfway through the growing season.
Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can promote leaf growth at the expense of root growth and yield.
Pruning
There is no need to prune parsnips once they are established in the garden. However, it is important to keep the area around the plants free of weeds and other competing plants.
Allow the leaves to die back naturally in the fall, as this signals the roots are ready to harvest.
Propagation methods for Pastinaca sativa L.
Pastinaca sativa L., commonly known as parsnip, can be propagated through several methods. The most common methods are:
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is the most popular method of propagating pastinaca sativa L. In this method, seeds are collected from the ripe fruits and sown in the field or nurseries. Time of sowing is usually in spring under low temperatures as germination is hastened in such conditions. The seeds should be sown at a depth not exceeding 2.5 cm. Seeds may take up to three weeks to germinate, depending on the soil temperature.
Cutting propagation
Parsnip can be propagated by cuttings. In this method, selected branches of the plant are cut and planted in a prepared bed. The cuttings should have 3 to 4 internodes, and the base of the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone powder. The cuttings should then be planted to a depth of 2 to 3 cm in a moist, well-drained soil. The cuttings should be kept moist and shaded until new leaves emerge.
Division
This method involves dividing the root clumps of the plant and planting them in the garden. Division can be done in early spring or late summer when the plants are not actively growing. The clumps should be carefully dug up, and the roots separated without causing damage. The divisions can then be replanted in a prepared bed and kept moist until they establish.
Propagation of pastinaca sativa L. can be achieved using any of the above methods. However, it is essential to choose a method that suits the desired propagation needs and resources.
Disease Management of Pastinaca sativa L.
Pastinaca sativa L., commonly known as parsnips, are susceptible to many diseases that can affect their yield and quality. The following are a few common diseases that may affect Pastinaca sativa, along with some preventive measures and remedial actions.
Fungal Diseases
Fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot are the most common diseases that can affect Pastinaca sativa. Powdery mildew can be prevented by proper ventilation, timely irrigation, and the removal of infected plant parts.
Root rot can be prevented by maintaining proper drainage and avoiding over-watering. Ensure that the soil is well-drained and not waterlogged, which can lead to rotting of roots. In case of infection, it is best to uproot and discard the infected plants and not use them for composting.
Bacterial Diseases
Bacterial diseases such as bacterial leaf spot can be controlled by using disease-resistant varieties of Pastinaca sativa or by using disease-free seeds. Crop rotation is also an effective way to prevent the spread of bacterial diseases.
In case of infection, it is best to remove the infected plants and avoid planting in the same location for at least three years.
Viral Diseases
Viral diseases such as carrot motley dwarf virus and parsley leaf curl virus can be prevented by using virus-free seeds and maintaining proper hygiene and sanitation practices in the garden.
Infected plants should be removed immediately, and the area should be disinfected to prevent the spread of the virus to other plants.
Pest Management of Pastinaca sativa L.
Pastinaca sativa is susceptible to several pests that can damage the plant, including wireworms, aphids, and carrot rust fly. The following are some preventive measures and remedial actions for the common pests of Pastinaca sativa.
Wireworms
Wireworms are the larvae of click beetles and can cause extensive damage to the roots of Pastinaca sativa. To prevent wireworm infestation, it is recommended to use crop rotation, avoid over-fertilization, and maintain proper drainage.
In case of infestation, it is best to uproot and discard the affected plants and avoid planting in the same location for at least two years.
Aphids
Aphids can suck the sap from the leaves of Pastinaca sativa, causing the plant to weaken and stunt. Strong water jets or insecticidal soaps can be used to dislodge the aphids from leaves.
To prevent infestation, it is best to keep the garden free of weeds, which can harbor aphids, and plant companion plants that repel aphids.
Carrot Rust Fly
The carrot rust fly can cause extensive damage to the roots of Pastinaca sativa, making it unfit for consumption. To prevent infestation, it is recommended to use crop rotation, cover the plants with floating row covers, and avoid over-fertilization.
If the plants are already affected, the best remedial action is to discard the affected roots and avoid planting in the same location for at least three years.
