Home › Parsnip › Grow in California

Can You Grow Parsnip in California?

US · USDA Zone 9b · zones 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b

Grows well here

Parsnips are a great match for your zone — they love a long cool season and frost sweetening.

Plant zones

2a–9b

California last frost

mid-January

California first frost

late December

Days to harvest

100–130 days

When to plant Parsnips in California

Direct sow

Jan 10

Harvest

Apr 20 – May 20

Dates are approximate, based on California's average frost dates. Your exact yard may vary by microclimate.

About Parsnip

Parsnips are an underrated root vegetable — sweet and nutty after frost exposure. They need deep, loose soil and a long season but reward patience with exceptional flavor.

Direct sow only — parsnips do not transplant well. Sow fresh seed (old seed has poor germination) 3-4 weeks before last frost. Thin to 6 inches. Leave in ground after frost — cold converts starch to sugar.

Full parsnip growing guide →

Gardening in California

California spans more climate zones than any other state. Coastal regions are mild year-round; the Central Valley is hot and productive; mountains are cold; deserts are extreme.