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Can You Grow Parsnip in Maine?

US · USDA Zone 5a · zones 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

2a–9b

Maine last frost

mid-April

Maine first frost

mid-October

Days to harvest

100–130 days

When to plant Parsnips in Maine

Direct sow

Apr 15

Harvest

Jul 24 – Aug 23

Dates are approximate, based on Maine'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 Maine

Maine has a cool humid continental climate. Coastal areas are Zone 5b-6a; inland and northern Maine is Zone 3b-4a. Short summers but excellent for potatoes, blueberries, and cool crops.