It is generally believed that hard frosts in winter improve the sugar content, so they do particularly well in cooler areas. The seed loses its ability to germinate after only one or two years, so always start with fresh seed. Sow directly in rows, about 20mm apart, keep the soil moist, and expect to see some emergence within 3 weeks. Thin the seedlings to 75mm apart. Friable, somewhat sandy soil is best for long rooted varieties, but short (relatively) varieties such as 'Gladiator' are more accomodating.
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PARSNIP Pastinacea sativa subsp. sativa Parsnips hang around in the garden from spring, when they are sown, until autumn and winter, when they are harvested, so you have to be prepared to lock up some garden space for quite a long while.