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Can You Grow Parsnip in Rhode Island?

US · USDA Zone 6b · zones 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

Rhode Island last frost

mid-March

Rhode Island first frost

mid-November

Days to harvest

100–130 days

When to plant Parsnips in Rhode Island

Direct sow

Mar 15

Harvest

Jun 23 – Jul 23

Dates are approximate, based on Rhode Island'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 Rhode Island

Rhode Island has a humid continental climate moderated by the ocean. A small state with a single primary zone of 6b in most areas. Four seasons with a productive growing window.