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Like "plot22" by this time of year parsnips being too big rather than too small can be more of an issue.I think a lot of this may be about thinning. I grew two rows this year, both Gladiator. The first row germinated well, and was thinned. Also during the year I harvested at least every second parsnip as "baby veg" when about finger size. By late summer the remaining parsnips were spaced at least six inches apart, sometimes more. The typical result is shown in the attached photo with a tape measure for reference.In the other row germination was poor, and very patchy. So I did little thinning and very little harvesting thinking it would not be needed. But I suspect that, unnoticed, more seedling must have germinated so actually this row ended up being rather crowded. My own fault, as I did not really keep a close eye on this row. Anyway, not a disaster as they are now at an edible size and will not go to waste - comparable to a medium carrot in size. I think this size may actually be preferable for many growers. So in my humble opinion, thinning may be big a factor not just growing conditions.CheersBeersmith
I tip my cap to you. I'd love to be able to guarantee 100% parsnip germination. Mine are often rather hit or miss. Rarely a complete failure, but often patchy. No matter, sometimes fewer means a bit bigger.CheersBeersmith