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Can You Grow Parsnip in Missouri?

US · USDA Zone 6a · zones 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

2a–9b

Missouri last frost

early April

Missouri first frost

late October

Days to harvest

100–130 days

When to plant Parsnips in Missouri

Direct sow

Apr 1

Harvest

Jul 10 – Aug 9

Dates are approximate, based on Missouri'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 Missouri

Missouri has a humid continental climate. Kansas City and St. Louis are Zone 6a-6b; northern Missouri is cooler at Zone 5b-6a. Four distinct seasons with a long growing window.