Self seeded Parsnip

[tog]

I am new to the forum.
Took over a 5 rod plot last autumn, just before the snow, dug some of it and planted up some crops, but I see at the end where I haven't cultivated yet, some self seeded parsnips.
Will they grow on so I can harvest them, or should I get some fresh seed in soonest?

[tog]

[realfood]

Are they really self seeded or are they left over from the previous year?

[Unwashed]

I'm sure they'll make parsnips.  They seed prolifically and germinate really well.  If they're from an F1 hybrid you'll get a bit of a mixed bag, but several popular parsnips are open polinated so chances are they'll be perfectly edible.

[tog]

Are they really self seeded or are they left over from the previous year?

Think they self seeded are as they are not mature yet. Must say that look fine so I will see how they do.

[shirlton]

We save our own parsnip seed ever year and although we put a bag over the plant once they have finished flowering we always get some seed that drops out of the bottom. Even the past 2 bad winetrs these have managed to come up. makes me wonder wether to sow some at the end of the year.

[saddad]

Welcome to A4A Tog...
That's my thinking with roots generally Shirl...  I'll be planting Scorzonera now as soon as it has finished flowering.. I get much better germination than from packets..  :-X

[antipodes]

I actually have two parsnips that I forgot and that have now come up with really strong growth (despite the drought). I am in doubt as to whether to keep them and let them go to seed! I am sure the seed would be good, but I just have too much parsnip seed already!  Maybe I should just give away the extra seed and try my own? (any takers out there? I have Guernesey and White Gem, freebies!)
My friend the farmer is always telling me that your own seed is best because it has adapted to your ground. That makes sense, don't know if it is strictly true though.

[saddad]

You can leave them in as ornamentals... if it's good enough for Chelsea....  :)

[shirlton]

Parsnip seed isn't much good after one year so you may as well let it flower. the bees love it.